Multiculturalism: For and Against

Points For and Against For: †¢ Australian society, often in the face of major difficulties. †¢ multiculturalism is good for the society as it brings cultural diversity to the society, can foster a tolerant society, and improve relations with other countries †¢ Multiculturalism is a set of practical policies aimed variously at improving the absorption of migrants and harmoniously integrating a culturally diverse society around liberal democratic values. ’[11] As such, multiculturalism is a conscious political and social choice made by the state and society in response to diversity. Against multiculturalism is bad, perhaps under the belief that migrants take jobs, that they bring racial tension to Australia, and that they create and settle in ghettos †¢ Multiculturalism can be seen as a set of norms or principles that uphold the right of the individual to retain, express and enjoy their culture. It also upholds the right of all individuals to have access to a nd participate in the social, cultural, economic and political life of the country to which they belong. †¢ Multiculturalism is a practical and principled response to the rapid increase in the global movement of people, commodities and ideas.People migrating to Australia often face problems associated with economic, social and cultural dislocation. These problems are exacerbated for people from non-English speaking backgrounds †¢ . Australian multiculturalism is a vital, long term social investment that aims, simultaneously, to address issues of social disadvantage and community relations More info:. 1)multiculturalism as a sound policy framework consistent with HREOC’s legislative mandate to promote understanding, respect and friendship among racial and ethnic groups in Australia and to combat prejudices that lead to racial discrimination. 4]2 )Multiculturalism is also a set of norms or principles compatible with HREOC’s vision for an Australian society in w hich the human rights of all are respected, protected and promoted. [5] In particular it resonates with a notion of equality which enables all Australians to participate fully in the social, cultural, economic and political life in Australia irrespective of race, religion, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin. 3) Finally, multiculturalism, both as policy and as principles, supports the ideals of a democratic society in which every person is free and equal in dignity and rights

Hunters in the Snow Essay

It’s really thrilling to read the short story â€Å"Hunters in the Snow† since it deals with three amazing characters namely Kenny, Tub and Frank. This short story is very interesting to read because these three hunting buddies’ characters appear as the story goes. At first, you will think if there is friendship among them, since one part of the story shows that Frank and Kenny could have helped Tub to get through the fences but they didn’t. However, in the end, you can actually see that there is more than friendship in their relationship as the story unfolds. It has been clearly seen that depending on circumstances, the three men who has balance of power among them could shift anytime since because of human nature. The story also suggests that whenever human being has been isolated in a natural setting, it is possible that they can be like animals which are primitive and predatory. The funny tragicomedy ending of the story made me laugh since they routed to a different way instead of heading to the hospital where they have to bring Kenny. Another related short story entitled â€Å"The Most Dangerous Game† which is also about hunting and human nature. Here, Sanger Rainsford is the main character who has a hard heart towards the animals he hunts and for him, hunting is the best sport in the world. Zaroff, a Russian aristocrat, on the other hand is called a civilized savage since his favorite prey is man. The setting is very interesting since it has always been mysterious to go to Caribbean  island. It’s been terrifying to know that there are humans who hunt for human. I felt sad about the frightened creatures that are being killed by hunters but the worst part of the story is when Rainsford killed Zaroff as he says â€Å"I am still a beast at bay†. The story is very inhumane as I read it, because aside from killing wild animals, human has been also a target for hunting in this story. This is really the most dangerous game so to speak because it seems that killing and hunting is just their hobby. However, I have learned that the purpose of the story is to teach us that game has its own rules but when you think that it would not be fair at all, you have to think twice especially when your life is at risk.

Supply Chain Management Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Supply Chain Management - Term Paper Example In addition to customer satisfaction and company success, supply chain management can also have a great influence on societal settings such as medical missions, disaster relief operations, and other emergencies and cultural revolution (University Alliance). Considering the crucial effect of supply chain management on organizational success, today even small business enterprises hire employees having abundant SCM skills and knowledge. Effective supply chain management will improve the bottom line of the business and enhance the cash flow by expediting the delivery of products. The most fascinating feature of SCM is that it plays inevitable role in meeting customer satisfaction making sure that right quantity of products is delivered to customers in a timely fashion. This paper will analyze the supply chain management of Hsuh Ta Enterprise Co., Ltd giving particular focus to the firm’s purchasing and material management and supply chain integration. Hsuh Ta Enterprise Co., Ltd is a Taiwanese plastic forming and molding company operating in the plastic industry. Although the company is in its initial phases of growth, it is known for its eco-friendly business model and a fast market growth rate. The sustainable business model assisted the company to survive the dreadful impacts of recent global recession successfully. The Hush management strongly believes that focusing particularly on the environmental notions of the society would benefit the organization to gain a set of competitive advantages over its market rivals. The company enjoys great governmental and public support on the strength of its sustainable business model. The concept of supply chain management has been well documented in the academic literature and is commonly regarded as the streamlining of a business’ supply chain activities for maximizing customer values and gaining competitive

The problem is lack of 60% parental involvement at a local elementary Essay

The problem is lack of 60% parental involvement at a local elementary school negatively affects the academic success of the students - Essay Example This research project examines the importance of parental involvement as well as the consequences of their lack of involvement in their children education. Parental involvement in the education of their children is undoubtedly of great significance in the academic achievement of the student. This paper also investigates the reasons as to why some parents don’t get fully involved, as it has been observed that not all parents participate actively in the education process of their children. The ways through which schools and teachers can have parents get involved actively in educating their kids at home is also closely examined in this paper. Chapter one examines the background of the proposal topic (Lack of Parental Involvement in Education and how it affects children and their academic success) by bringing out the statement of the problem. The purpose of the study and research questions has also been stated. In chapter two the secondary information relating to parental involvement in their children’s academic process has been examined and related to the performance of the child. This has been based on the previous studies carried on the topic. As observed by Bryan (2005) it is very likely for student to perform below their potential if parents are not actively involved in their academic progress. However, despite this problem parents as seen still not to be fully involved in their children school activities. As revealed by Wanat (1992), this problem is mainly as a result of lack of time or expertise in the side of the parent. This project will involve a population of students from both junior primary and senior classes so as to compare the involvement across the levels. Parents’ involvement is basically thought to be more intense with younger children and reduces as the children grow up and move up through the academic ladder (Dixon, 1992). The selection of the population shall be done carefully to

English Legal Process Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

English Legal Process - Coursework Example Failure to comply with Section 24 of PACE and the Code of Practice will render an arrest unlawful.2 Together the Code of Practice and Section 24 of PACE inform that two elements must be present otherwise an arrest is unlawful. First the person arrested must be involved or suspected to have been involved in or attempted to be involved in committing a criminal offence. Secondly, there must be reasonable grounds that arrest is necessary. Section 24(5) of PACE sets forth a number of grounds upon which an arrest is necessary to prevent the person under arrest absconding.3 As soon as Ray was approached by the officers and informed that he was under arrest he attempted to escape and therefore whether or not the police had reasonable grounds to believe that Ray’s arrest was necessary when they initially attempted to arrest him, they had reasonable grounds to believe that his arrest was necessary the moment he attempted to escape. ... ect a lawful arrest.7 Ray attempted to escape the police upon learning that he was under arrest and the police merely wrestled him to the ground and in doing so used only the force that was necessary to carry out the arrest. The only questionable act on the part of the police is whether or not the police properly informed Ray of the reasons for his arrest. Section 28 (3) of PACE instructs that an arrest is unlawful â€Å"unless the person arrested is informed of the ground for the arrest at the time of, or as soon as is practicable after, the arrest.8 Obviously, it was impractical to inform Ray of the reasons for his arrest when he attempted to escape, but he could have been informed at any time after he was placed in handcuffs. However, the police did not inform Ray of the reasons for his arrest despite several opportunities to do so. He was in the police car win an officer while the police stopped at an unrelated crime scene. This raises the question of whether or not the police c omplied with their duty to take the detainee to the police station as soon as practical after the arrest.9 The stop was brief however, and given police duties to protect the public, it may be concluded that the stop was not an unnecessary intrusion and thus may not compromise Section 30 which requires the detainee be taken to the police station as soon as practical after the arrest. Although the detainee may not be questioned until after he has been cautioned, and after he is at the police station, Ray offered information while waiting in the car at the police stop. He had been cautioned and had volunteered the information and the police officer receiving the information did not encourage Ray and did not engage in discussions about it. Thus the police did not act improperly. Police are required

Iphone 5 Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Iphone 5 - Term Paper Example Sales Presentation Preparation 11 A. Presentation Objectives 11 B. Business Contact Worksheet 11 C. Need Discovery Worksheet 11 D. Demonstration Worksheet 12 E. Negotiation Worksheet 12 F. Closing Worksheet 12 G. Follow Through, Follow Up and Expansion Services- List 13 VI. Appendices 13 References 14 I. Proposal Summary A. Buyer Problem or Need There is an identified need on the part of the buying organization to upgrade to a mobile infrastructure to address internal productivity needs, as well as to address the needs of customers wanting to interact with the firm using the platforms that the customers use on a daily basis (Google, 2012; Verizon Wireless, 2012; Apple, 2012; Canada, 2012; Beavis, 2012). B. User Problem’s Business Impact Productivity impacts the firm’s ability to sustain itself in the long term, and to be profitable. Customer interactions likewise drive business top lines and profits. The decision on the right mobile platform can affect the future of the business in a fundamental way (Google, 2012; Verizon Wireless, 2012; Apple, 2012; Canada, 2012; Beavis, 2012). C. Value Proposition We are selling a platform as well as an ecosystem that has global traction, unparalleled popularity and quality, and is proven to improve productivity for both firms and individuals (Google, 2012; Verizon Wireless, 2012; Apple, 2012; Canada, 2012; Beavis, 2012). II. Proposed Solution A. ... The new iPhone is also able to leverage the unparalleled ecosystem of applications, application developers, companies that cater to components and services tied to the iPhone, the app store and its providers of apps, the music store and the millions of copyrights belonging to the music industry and content creators, and even business productivity solutions all tied to the iPhone franchise (Canada, 2012; Apple Inc., 2012; Beavis, 2012). The product under consideration here, therefore, is not just the phone, but the whole ecosystem that goes with purchasing the new iPhone 5. This is not to say that the new iPhone is interchangeable with the older iPhone models, because as it is the new iPhone has features that make it stand out from the crowd, and represents the best in terms of the evolution of the device. A sampling of the outstanding new features of the phone, that sit on top of the great features of the ecosystem as described above, includes a 4-inch Retina screen, speedy wireless connectivity, new and powerful processor in the A6 processor chip. An 8 megapixel camera, a new OS in iOS 6, and the latest iteration of the cloud computing platform for Apple, the iCloud (Verizon Wireless, 2012; Apple, 2012; Canada, 2012; Beavis, 2012). B. Company Description Apple the company is in the business of the design, manufacture, and the marketing of mobile products for telecommunications and media consumption, in essence, even as it is known traditionally as a maker of computing products with its Mac line of computers. The products revolve around an ecosystem and a platform for the consumption of content, including music, books, and apps. The key

Swans Reflecting Elephants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Swans Reflecting Elephants - Essay Example Swans Reflecting Elephants is similar to a brain teaser, or an optical illusion, which is what Dali was aiming at when he painted this piece. At first glance, the painting seems to consist of three swans sitting on a lake. They are surrounded by leafless trees, suggesting that the painting takes place in autumn, and some cliffs, and a few stray clouds drift across the sky. Despite the washed-out appearance of the colors, it is a very serene image. However, the closer that one looks at the painting, the more of the subject matter that they can make out. While the image is clearly that of swans sitting on a lake, a second, more closer examination of the piece reveals that the swans and the trees behind them reflect elephants on the lake. The bare trees become the legs of the elephants and the swans become their trunks and bodies. The perfect placement of the trees and swans allow for this double image, essentially offering two paintings, or two stories, in one. In his Swans Reflecting Elephants, Salvador Dali wanted to show that life is not always what it seems at first glance. His use of the double image, with the swans fading so seamlessly into elephants, reveals that our perception can pick up on aspects or features of life that are not immediately recognizable. This is similar to finding constellations among a smattering of stars, or picking out images or designs in the stucco of walls. Our eyes are capable of finding more than just the original image. Furthermore, Dali gives evidence.

Benefits of Risk Management, Risk Management Frameworks Assignment

Benefits of Risk Management, Risk Management Frameworks - Assignment Example Importance of Risk Management Risk Management is extremely crucial because it helps the decision-making process regarding viability and competitiveness between organizations. It also helps in the creation of value which is the main factor to manage the business better in global markets when all organizations have equal access to available resources because then business processes to congregate on international standards. Operational efficiency can be increased by having plans for risk management already in place because it enables a business to do more for less. This means putting aside resources from regular expenditures in making strategic investments which will support company goals. A large percentage of the budget is spent on keeping the business running. Progressive organizations must have contingency plans to develop and expand resource deployment and implementation which will spare resources to concentrate on risk management strategies. (Mes 2010). Benefits of Risk Management Risk is always associated with insecurity and improbabilities with the possibility of things not turning out as expected. The benefits of risk management are that the organization is fully prepared for such eventualities and has a mechanism in place to handle risks and minimize losses. It is not possible to totally eliminate all risks, so good risk management develops awareness of risks when times are good, and perpetuates regulations and self-control during crises (Raz and Michael 2001). The benefits of risk management can be both long and short term. Accordingly, each stage of risk management efforts beginning from risk identification and evaluation and formulating alleviation or improvement strategies has its own benefits (Miller 1992). Question 2: Compare and contrast Management of Risk with another risk management framework (such as that offered in chapter 7 of Project Management by Larson and Gray), highlighting the similarities and differences between them.  

Maslow's theory Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Maslow's theory - Essay Example It was clear that the hygiene factors meet mans needs to avoid unpleasantness but do not motivate them to take more interest in the work.† The Maslow’s theory argues that it is clear that lower order needs such as food, shelter and physical security. These factors are considered some of the basic â€Å"hygiene† of the workplace necessary for minimum functionality undoubtedly for any employee. Additionally, appraisal and feedback system was another huge theories that were present in both methodologies in human resource management. It is crucial to understand that giving feedback to employees that feel that they need to benchmark and leverage their standards. Evidently, Herzbergs theory goes above and beyond that hygiene plays a huge role towards employee’s performance. Without a doubt, if these are met- a worker is free to explore the higher order needs necessary to build superior worker productivity, with a particular emphasis upon self-esteem and creativity, as well as earning the respect of

Surprising reversal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Surprising reversal - Essay Example However, the truth is that I did have to work and the benefits were not great. The worst part was the aftermath of the soldier coming home. Military men and women have to do a lot of training before they go off to war. Sometimes, it can last 45 days and they are not allowed to come home or have any phone communications. Needless to say, they did manage to make calls here and there when they could. After they would come home from training of 45 days, they would not get time off since they still had to go to work like normal. They would do this every two to three months before they had to go. Being an army wife is like being a single parent because your spouse is seldom there. Unfortunately, the lower the soldiers rank, the lower the pay. So, the wife still has to work, and daycare is out of the question. Kids cannot stay home alone, so what do you do? You try to meet as many good people as possible to help watching the children so that the bills still get paid. There was a time where I had to hold down two jobs and still had to come home to take care of my children. When living on or near a military insulation, the insurance requires that their doctors see you first, and if a specialist is needed, then another doctor would be provided. Personally, I feel that military doctors are qualified to treat their patients, but because they are in military they have that hardcore military mind frame with which they do not misdiagnose the problem but underestimate the issue. For instance, I was told twice by military doctors that I was not pregnant. After a month of still feeling uncomfortable, I decided to see a â€Å"real doctor† and the results were positive but too late. Because the urine sample was not read properly and my baby stayed in my tubes so long, she was diagnosed with a severe heart defect and died 7 months later. Imagine a family that is always separated for long time periods with little phone communication. On special occasions, they would call and all you could hear were bombs going off in the background. That could be the most terrifying sound for anyone. The common wife would get off the phone, go to their children, and sit down and cry. Military wives are a little different. They will get off the phone and go tuck their children in bed with a smile to show that everything is okay. Do not get me wrong. There is always that thought in the back of their minds that something may go wrong, but they do not show it. All military wives are not the same. Some have other agendas. At my time, with their spouse gone, all that some army wives wanted to do was just party and hangout. Meanwhile, soldiers were getting half of the information about what was going on at their homes. Someone would throw a party on base and the commander would only give the first three letter of the last name and it would get the soldier roused up. About two days later, the full name would get revealed but by that time it would be too late. The soldier would have already called home making treats and putting his marriage on the line. It is hard on both the soldier and the wife, but it is even worst for the kids. On one hand, you have the soldier who is out there in the dessert fighting a war hoping everything goes good on patrol and still worrying about what is going on at home. On the other hand you have the wife who is worrying about the kids, work, and the spouse. Oh yeah! And the media does not help at all. They always want the story about

High School and School Counseling Interventions Essay Example for Free

High School and School Counseling Interventions Essay Instructions: 1. Using this template, complete your article critique and submit this document to Blackboard. 2. Summary must include all five criteria: a. Introduction and rationale for the research b. Major strengths/weaknesses in the article. c. Summary of research outcome. d. Two methods of applying this research to practice. e. Conclusion 3. To begin your summary on the next page of this template insert a page break. Use APA formatting. School Counseling Outcome: A Meta-Analytic Examination of Interventions. Introduction and rationale for the research In the fields of counseling, education, and psychology, there has been a strong emphasis placed on evidence-based practices to determine the effectiveness of school counseling interventions. In this article, two types of Meta-Analysis interventions were used during this study. Meta-Analysis 1 involved treatment-control comparisons and Meta-Analysis 2 involved pretest-posttest differences. The overall average weighted effect size for school counseling interventions was . 30. This study determined how effective moderator variables influenced effect size of, guidance curriculum, individual planning, responsive services, and system support. Analyses of moderator variables are designed to determine the effectiveness of school counseling program activities in this article. Major strengths/weaknesses in the article The overall school counseling interventions produced an average effect size of . 30 which is significant. However, in this article, the average effect size of Meta-Analysis 2 intervention was not significant, only . 07. Previously research has found that meta- analyses using pretest-posttest typically produces a higher effect size compared to the more traditional treatment-control group comparisons. It’s difficult to determine the non-significant mean effect size for pretest-posttest meta-analysis. Additional analyses in the pretest and posttest form will need to focus on specific interventions and additional information regarding the effectiveness of specific strategies in school counseling. One of the common criticism of meta-analytic approaches is that studies with weak methodological rigor may artificially inflate average effect sizes(M. W. Lipsey,2003). M. W. Lipsey (2003) also argued that methodological moderator variables that often are assumed to be independent are not necessarily independent and carefully conducted meta-analytic reviews should explore methodological relationship patterns. The effect size of . 30 was based on 117 experimental studies that involved 153 interventions, which is a significant increase from the six studies used by Sprinthall (1981). Many more studies were conducted with elementary school students; however, school counseling interventions included in this meta-analysis appeared to be slightly more effective with middle or junior high students followed by high school students. Thus, these studies show a significant effect on school counseling interventions for all levels of K-12 education. There are also some limitations when meta-analytic techniques are used. The validity of effect size largely depends on the quality of studies that were included in the review. Some major limitations in school counseling research could not be addressed statistically. Also there are few studies that address the issues of treatment integrity. Only a handful of studies used treatment manuals or well-developed curricula. It was difficult for researches to determine what was effective because researchers could not determine what interventions were implemented with students. Another limitation was the elimination of 111 studies that had insufficient data or missing information. Another limitation from this article concerns the dominance of non-standardized outcome assessments in school counseling research. Meta-analysis also lacked long-term follow-up data. The lack of longitudinal data allows for the measurement and analysis of only short-term effectiveness. Another issue with meta-analysis research is that interventions focused mostly on specific interventions rather than comprehensive school counseling programs. There has been very few research studies conducted on comprehensive school counseling programs. Summary of research outcome. There were 118 studies that used meta-analysis 1, involving treatment-control comparisons and 153 school interventions; however, two studies were considered one study because of the same simple. Out of the 117 studies, 81 were published in journals and 36 were theses or dissertations. This meta-analysis study had 16,296 participants and the sample ranged from 8 to 5, 618, with the average study involving 139. 28 participants. From these studies, 50. 4% were elementary school students, 17. 9% were middle or junior high school students, and 24. 8% were high school students, and 6% had a mixture of ages, and one study did not report the age of the student participants. There was an overall weighted effect size of 27% for students that received school counseling intervention compared to those students that did not receive school counseling intervention. The average effect size was significant. Also, there were a total of 33studies that used meta-analysis 2, involving pretest-posttest design; however, two effect sizes were eliminated from one study. Therefore, 31 studies that involved 51 school counseling interventions were used. The effect sizes calculated from these 31 studies involved 2,015 participants and the average study involving 62. 97 students and the sample ranged from 9 to 283. Out of the 31 studies, 17 were published in journals, 13 were theses or dissertations, and one study was an ERIC document. From these studies, 29% involved elementary school students, 12. 9% were middle or junior high school students, and 54. 8% were high school students, and 3. 2% had a mixture of ages and grade levels. There was only a . 07% weighted effect size on pretest and posttest meta-analysis which indicates the average effect size was not significant. Two methods of applying this research to practice Firstly, my goal as an aspiring school counselor is to implement a comprehensive school counseling program for all students. I would provide a variety of interventions and activities using the four components of the delivery system of a school counseling program, guidance curriculum, individual student planning, responsive services, and system support. I would then, conduct studies in my school, collecting data, and determine which services students and the school will benefit from the most. This will help me determine what type of programs and activities are most effective for our students and school. Secondly, I would consider taking additional research courses to prepare me to contribute to the knowledge base of school counseling, while conducting research projects related to school counseling. Simply, there needs to be more and better research in the area of school counseling. â€Å"Without additional empirical support, some schools may eliminate professional school counseling programs†(Erford, p 68). Conclusion. From this research on meta-analyses not all school counseling interventions were equally effective. Additional research is needed to examine the impact these studies had on students from diverse backgrounds. Although more research is often a recommendation after completing a meta-analysis (e. g. , Ehri et al. , 2001; Swanson, 1999; Whiston, Brecheisen, Stephens, 2003; Xin, Grasso, Dipipi-Hoy, Jitendra, 2005), we contend that lack of methodological rigor and dearth of studies make the calls for additional sound research in school counseling particularly important. Also, the issues of treatment integrity and increasingly use standardized outcome assessments will enhance future school counseling interventions. From this study, one would learn that additional research is needed, however, from this research; data shows that school counseling interventions have a positive effect size on student outcomes. Furthermore, there were significant effect sizes for interventions at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. School counselors’ were able to increase students’ ability to solve problems while decreasing discipline problems. However, the researchers were unable to identify specific programs or approaches that produce positive outcomes. Additional research is needed to address what interventions for school counseling works, with what students, and under what circumstances. References Erford, B. T. (2011). Transforming the school counseling profession (3rd Ed. ). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc. Whiston, Tai, Rahardja, and Eder. (Winter 2011 Volume 89). School Counseling Outcome: A Meta-Analytic Examination of Interventions. Journal of Counseling Development , 37-55.

Basic Assumptions in Accounting

Basic Assumptions in Accounting Accounts are produced by all companies as a way of providing information to all third parties interested in the company’s performance. One of the primary aims of these accounts is to reduce the problems inherent in the agency relationship of the directors with the other interested stakeholders such as investors, employees and even government bodies. Due to the wide range of uses for accounts, it is little wonder that research into the way that these accounts are drafted and presented has had to lay down some fundamental assumptions in the way that accounts are written. However, in reality the assumptions that have underlined the analysis of accounts may, at times, be flawed, causing the overall analysis of these accounts to be at best incomplete and possibly even inaccurate (Hermanson, 2005)[1]. Assumption 1 – Accounts are Primarily for Shareholders This is a very common assumption and in many cases is not a damaging one. Even the law seems to support this assumption, with legislation requiring that annual accounts are produced and supplied to the shareholders (Companies Act 2006)[2]. This fuels the concept that the accounts are for the use of the shareholders, only. It is true, however, that accounts are largely for shareholders. The company belongs to the shareholders and is managed and run by the directors. This structure produces an agency problem with those running the business not being those individuals who ultimately benefit or suffer from its success or failure. Shareholders need the accounts in order to determine whether their investment is safe, whether they should be investing more, withdrawing their investment or asking certain questions of the board in relation to policies or activities. The accounts give valuable information to the shareholders in relation to the volume of sales, profitability, comparative analysis of key competitors and the overall value of the shares. Accounting standards have been developed with this key use in mind. It is necessary for all accounts to be audited by an independent auditor to determine that the accounts offer a true and fair value of the state of the financial position of the company. This is, of course, vital for the shareholders as they must trust the accounts being produced by the directors to be accurate, in order for them to make their investment decisions. Whilst all of these principles appear to be geared towards the shareholders, there are other users of the accounts that benefit equally from the standard set out in relation to published accounts. Other key users include the lenders. For many businesses, these stakeholders are absolutely vital and they will be largely interested in the same information as the shareholders, although will only really be concerned about whether the company has sufficient resource to pay back the loan that they have advanced to the company and that suitable security over assets exists (Watts, 2003)[3]. Employees are clearly interested in knowing the health and profitability of the company so that they can be comfortable with their own job security. However, this stakeholder group is often overlooked, despite its central role within the organisation. In addition, government agencies should not be overlooked, with agencies such as HM Revenue and Customs requiring information in order to collect the correct amount of corporation taxes (Brennan, 2000)[4]. Therefore, whilst shareholders may be the most visible group of stakeholders with an interest in the accounts, there are other stakeholders which also have an interest and should not be disregarded. Assumption 2 Accounting Measures a Concrete Reality which is Out There Prepared accounts are required to follow the basic principles such as relevance, understandability, consistency and comparability. Therefore, whilst accounts are prepared in line with the directors’ decisions and interpretations, there are certain underlying rules that must be followed to ensure that the accounts are as close to an unbiased, concrete reflection of the state of the business as is possible. In particular, this is important for the benefit of investor and shareholder comparisons. In order to make suitable judgements regarding investments and decisions about which company should be given support, the accounts of the two companies must be comparable. To be comparable the accounts must be as objective and factual as possible. However, just because it is desirable for the accounts to be a concrete reflection of what is ‘out there’ in the company does not mean that this is an assumption which can be drawn as being true. This need for consistency has been recognised by the International Accounting Standards Board which has developed, in so far as is possible, the financial reporting standards that companies need to follow in a bid to ensure that accounts are as close to being a concrete and comparable reflection as possible (Kroll, 2004)[5]. Take, for example, the way in which a company chooses to report its cash earned. The company could choose to operate on either a cash or on an accrual basis. Under the cash basis, the company would report income as soon as it actually arrives within the company, whereas the accrual basis shows the income earned at the time of the writing of the accounts, regardless of whether or not it has been already received. It is clear to see that the choice as to whether to follow a cash model or an accrual model will have a significant impact on the way in which the profit and loss appears in relation to the company. Other policies that are managed by international standards include issues such as the treatment of goodwill or depreciation, both areas that have traditionally allowed considerable director discretion. By having these basic accounting standards that companies must follow, there is certainly a move towards establishing concrete accounts. This, however, has not been fully achieved yet and, therefore, it is not fair to assume that all accounts are a completely concrete reflection of what is ‘out there’. Assumption 3 – Accounting Can be Neutral Clearly, it is desirable that financial accounts produced by companies are entirely neutral in the way that they are presented. Inaccuracy in accounts generally falls into two distinct categories, dishonesty or incompetence. Dishonesty has several different gradients and may be as simple as the desire by the management team to present a certain aspect of the business, whilst minimising the importance of other activities within the business. One of the main ways that a company could ensure that there is no element of dishonesty in the accounts is to have external auditors checking the accounts to ensure that they are a fair and accurate reflection of the company situation. Furthermore, with the financial reporting standards that have now been developed to ensure neutrality in the published accounts, companies are required to state definitively if they have deviated from the financial reporting standards, so that any move away from neutrality can be immediately and categorically identified. Therefore, whilst not all accounts will always be unbiased or neutral, identifying where neutrality has been deviated from, companies are now required to draw attention actively to this fact, thus increasing transparency. The use of external auditors in the preparation of the accounts is also a useful check and balance to ensure lack of misleading statements in the accounts (Cottingham, 1995)[6]. Despite all these measures, there remains the biased element of the accounts in the chairman’s statement. This is the opportunity for the board of directors to state their opinion and to detail the rationale of the company in terms of previous decisions and the direction which the company is taking in the longer term. This element of the report will naturally result in a non-neutral position (Goch, 1975)[7]. Company accounts are produced, as established earlier, for the benefit of many stakeholders, although primarily they are used by the shareholders and lenders to assist their investment decision. It is only natural, therefore, that companies will choose to forward their best possible position for the accounts. Whilst there are checks and balances in place in the form of financial reporting standards and the requirement of the independent auditor, it is fair to state the accounts are not entirely neutral, at all times. Assumption 4 Accountants are Professionals and Have the Ability to use Sound Judgement Accountants are used at all levels by companies of all sizes to manage the financial affairs of the company and ultimately to produce the accounts for external use, on an annual basis. All qualified accountants are required to be members of professional bodies such as Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales and have strict codes of professional ethics in relation to the way in which they conduct their role (Riahi-Belkaoui, 1992)[8]. Despite the need for these accountants to be controlled and to be managed in a way that they conduct their role, it is essential that they are given suitable freedom to exercise their own professional judgement. Increasing transparency requirements and the greater degree of prescription that is being placed on the accounting profession, in terms of financial reporting standards and requirement is changing the role of accountants in the preparation of accounts. Accounting standards have resulted in accountancy becoming much more of a science than an art form. There is a danger in this shift of emphasis. Accountants are professionals and their sound professional judgement is essential in ensuring that the most accurate company accounts are produced. However, this sound professional judgement is only useful if it is unbiased to the company itself, i.e. through an independent accountant or auditor (Thomas Keim, 2003)[9]. Internal accountants who are employees of the company are under the influence of the directors and, as such, may have an unhelpful level of bias towards the company. In this case, where there are competing requirements, accountants cannot be relied upon to exercise the same degree of sound professional judgment. Published accounts are only as good as the information that is supplied to the accountants preparing these accounts. If accountants are not given the full information in relation to the company, they will simply not produce accurate accounts, regardless of how sound their professional judgment is (Chisnall, 2001)[10]. Professional accountants, as a whole, are required under their own code of ethics to exercise professional judgment when conducting their roles and this is generally followed. Constraints are increasingly being placed on the way in which accountants can prepare accounts and this is restricting the ability to exercise professional judgment in all cases. Care must also be taken when considering accountants who are biased due to their position with the company. Conclusions Many assumptions are made when it comes to published financial accounts. In almost all cases, these assumptions are not universally true and care should always be taken to reconsider these assumptions, whenever accounts are being analysed. Any deviations from these assumptions could dramatically impact on the way in which the company accounts are viewed by all stakeholders concerned. Bibliography Brennan, N. Gray, S.J., 2000. Accountants’ reports on profit forecasts: regulation and practice. Managerial Auditing Journal, 15, 9. Chisnall, P., 2001. Fair value accounting – an industry view. Balance Sheet, 9, 1. Cottingham, J. Hussey, R., 1995. The Prevention of Misleading Accounts Through Disclosures of Related Party Transactions. Journal of Financial Regulation and Compliance, 3, 4. Goch, D., 1975. The Changing Face of the Annual Report. Managerial Finance, 1, 3. Hermanson, R.H., Edwards, J.D. Maher, M.W., 2005. Accounting Principles. 8th ed., Freeload Press, Inc. Riahi-Belkaoui, A., 1992. Morality in Accounting. Quorum Books. Kroll, K.M., 2004. The Lowdown on Lean Accounting: A New Way of Looking at the Numbers. Journal of Accountancy, 198. Thomas Keim, M. Grant, C.T., 2003.To Tell or Not to Tell: An Auditing Case in Ethical Decision Making and Conflict Resolution. Issues in Accounting Education, 18. Watts, R. L., 2003. Conservatism in Accounting Part I: Explanations and Implications. Accounting Horizons, 17. Footnotes [1] Hermanson, R.H., Edwards, J.D. Maher, M.W., 2005. Accounting Principles. 8th ed., Freeload Press, Inc. [2] Companies Act 2006. Section 413. [3] Watts, R.L., 2003. Conservatism in Accounting Part I: Explanations and Implications. Accounting Horizons, 17. [4] Brennan, N. Gray, S.J., 2000. Accountants’ reports on profit forecasts: regulation and practice. Managerial Auditing Journal, 15, 9. [5] Kroll, Karen M., 2004. The Lowdown on Lean Accounting: A New Way of Looking at the Numbers. Journal of Accountancy, 198. [6] Cottingham, J. Hussey, R., 1995. The Prevention of Misleading Accounts Through Disclosures of Related Party Transactions. Journal of Financial Regulation and Compliance, 3, 4. [7] Goch, D., 1975. The Changing Face of the Annual Report. Managerial Finance, 1, 3. [8] Riahi-Belkaoui, A., 1992. Morality in Accounting. Quorum Books. [9] Thomas Keim, M. Grant, C.T., 2003. To Tell or Not to Tell: An Auditing Case in Ethical Decision Making and Conflict Resolution. Issues in Accounting Education, 18. [10] Chisnall, P., 2001. Fair value accounting – an industry view. Balance Sheet, 9, 1.

Personal development plan and professional skills

Personal development plan and professional skills Personal Development Plan can be defined an activity that helps a person to assess, improve and take actions regarding his/her capabilities and permanently improving these skills throughout the career. If a person is clear about his/her short term and long term goals then it is easy to prioritise all the tasks with careful considerations keeping in view the importance of each task. The most important aspect of a persons life is to gain personal and professional skills that required him/her to be successful in life to achieve the required objectives. So if there is no personal development plan, there is no direction for your life and therefore no improvement and achievements. One of the most important thing regarding objectives whether these are personal or professional, an acronym is used that is SMART means. So here I have mentioned three personal and professional skills required. I have analysed and explained on this task. After that the audit on the skill is conducted in relation to the purpose of organization and the objectives of personal and organizational. Specific Means clearly mentioned like I want to complete my MBA Measurable In quantifiable terms like 40% improvement Achievable These should be achievable so no over-optimistic goals Relevant To the overall goal of company Time-Bound There should be a time limit like 1st of Feb 1.2 Personal and Professional Skills 1.2.1 Personal Skills 1.2.2 Prioritization One of the most attribute a person should have is that if there are more than one task you should be able to prioritize the tasks, like When I work out in Pizza Hut on make table. If two 2 orders come one is delivery and other is takeaway/collection, then Collection will be made first because we have to deliver collection pizza in 15 minutes but delivery in 30 to 50 minutes. This is only one example but the key which I think is that all the task whether job of study which is most important and what are deadlines for these tasks. Does not matter how long or short are these tasks. 1.2.3 Command and Control One important thing is whatever I do whether working in Pizza Hut or MacDonald is whatever my responsibilities are there if I do not know everything about my task, then it is very difficult to manage my job. So If I do not know anything about my job, I prefer to ask and remember that thing for future rather than becoming panic and doing tasks wrongly. For example, If I do not know about any deal of Macdonald or about the toppings of any Pizza, I will used to ask the manager rather than navel gazing. 1.2.4 Learn from Mistakes If anybody wants to improve in life, then they should learn from mistakes and note them down. This is an important key that you should note down any mistake you made and then check second time do you remember or not. Whenever I mad wrong pizza or any mistakes, I immediately took a note of that and practiced that thing after the session so that I will be improving all the time. 1.2.5 Contribution towards Personal and Professional Goals To achieve PGD degree from the CECOS London College To complete MBA degree. To be a potential support manager in MacDonald or Pizza Hut. 1.3 Organization objectives: In focusing towards the acronym of SMART, as an organizational manager, there are five objectives which should be achieved by the manager: 1.3.1 Planning and Organizing Clear vision setting in relation to the SMART objectives such as: achievable, measurable, specific, realistic, and time boundary. Structural build up. Task is divided or apportioned Resources should be considered for example: human, monetary, technology and materials Sensitivity and security ensuring 1.3.2 Command and Control Activities are maintained in between the personnel. Hierarchy reporting Activities are controlled among the manager and work force All activities and efforts are unifying and harmonising Co-ordinated management supervise and harmonise the activities and efforts Provide support Motivation for juniors when they did a good job Rule is established and command is expressed for the purpose of conducting the managerial activities in relation to check the work efficiency of the personnel. 1.3.3 Time Management Strategies For using time more effectively and efficiently, there are some ways of managing time such as: managing time for a week. For doing this, time can be divided into small unit. In case of a delivery unit of Pizza Hut, it is noticed that majority of the time that is spent on different activities of the organization is not productive and in many times time is wasted by the employees because of ineffective time management. There are some strategies of time management: 1.3.4 Establishing objectives For achieving profit maximization, make a plan to use the time with the way which is realistic. Time management helps a manager or an entrepreneur to achieve organizational objectives more effectively and efficiently. 1.3.5 Evaluation of spending time: The way of spending time in working place is very much necessary to determine. The working hours or the availability of mine also has to be calculated. The amount of tasks and number of activities which a person can do in a week should also be calculated. Except these strategies, other strategies are: 1. Assess the difference between utilising of the actual and ideal time. 2. Give priority the task of work. 3. Give importance towards the urgent and important work. 1.3.6 Requirement of skill for achieving personal and organization objective: For the purpose of meeting and achieving the each and every goal and objective of personal and organizational, some skills are needed such as: the skill of communicating with other peoples, skill of IT, problem solving skill, skill of working with team, self performance and learning skill. These skills are considered as basic skills which are very much important for achieving personal objectives. But for the purpose of achieving the organizational objectives, four skills are needed to contain by the manager such as: planning, organizing, leading, coordinating etc. 2. Personal Audit Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5 Column 6 SKILLS Existing PROFICIENCY Target Judging success criteria Time frame Proof NO 1. PRIORITY Presentation Skill To be able to give presentation in classroom but feel nervous and cant give presentation as the standard of professional Classroom presenter as confidently I want to achieve A grade in my project by giving successful presentation in the class. During the academic year ending By giving successful presentation in the class NO 2. PRIORITY Writing Skill The description as technical is good but critical thinking of mine seems to be difficult to present Descriptive writing is good and critical writing is satisfactory I did two assignments on change management and business strategic plan so I have achieved critical and analytical skills so I hope a good result. Completing my diploms By achieving good grades in my assignments in relation course studies Communication Skills Sometimes I want to express myself, but feel hesitation. I want to convey what I feel inside with colleagues and all professionals Group discussions, assignments and discussion with teachers and managers about my progress I am improving and have been getting confidence but this is an on going process. So it is difficult to set a time frame Group presentations and effective communication with professors NO 3. PRIORITY Awareness as Commercial Manager I have interest in the issue of business but lack of the awareness as practical Working in MacDonald and PizzHut as practice Complete my diploma program of training program for achieving commercial awareness Till the year of 3rd By achieving commercial awareness NO 4. PRIORITY Skills Of Team working Cant adjust to work with the team member and cant accept any improper remarks about my work and also decide early to appreciate other ideas I want to successfully my individual and professional goals together with my team mates. Team progress can be monitored by me in order to meet the difficulties and overcome these difficulties Till the end of 2rd year By working as a support manager in the near future and lead them effectively. NO 5. PRIORITY Skills of leadership Not confident and cant lead or motivate other people with my own words Achieve confidence to lead the team and also delegate with others Pizza Hut and MacDonald colleagues would be happy with me, recognizing my achievements and taking help from me. Till the end of 3rd year Working as a team leader in Pizza Hut most probably and as team member in Mac Donald. 3. ongoing personal development plan 3.1 Professional Skills I have selected two organizations: MacDonald and Pizza Hut to where I am working at the moment. The features of the learning opportunities are intensive and collaborative which are related with the evaluative stage. Personal development includes of several approaches for example: consultation, action, coaching and practice of making pizza or burgers, discussion about mistakes, training, supervision as reflective, and the assistance of technology like taking order over the phone by using internet. The definition of professional skill can be provided as the skills and knowledge which are achieved for the purpose of personal development and along with the advancement of career. The opportunities of learning as facilitated are encompassed by the personal development which is related with the range of formal training of work at Pizza Hut and MacDonald, consultations with manager and the practice of the opportunities of learning as facilitated. 3.2 Personal Skills In order to being a successful manager, I should contain some professional and personal skills such as: leadership, time management skill, meeting running, presentation making, management of stress etc. The importance of these skills are now evaluated. Personal skill is also considered as the interpersonal skill of the person which is consisted of the algorithm of mental and communicative which is applied for the purpose of conducting social communication and interacting with other peoples in order to identify achieve specific effects or outcome. 3.3 Time Management Skill The definition of time management skill can be given as the process and tools of developing the skills in order to enhancing efficiency and productivity. Time management skill is considered as the personal skill which is directed towards the using the valuable resources within the time frame. For the purpose of managing time, the manager should be more organized, efficient and as well as happier. The skill of personal time management is consisted of the activities of setting of goals, planning, prioritizing, make the decision, delegating and scheduling. By using time management skill, wastage can be eliminated, make preparation for attending the meeting, excessive workload refusing, project progress can be monitored, plans can be made for each day and each week efficiently and effectively. 3.4 Stress Management Skill The definition of stress can be provided as the reaction of nervous system of the body towards the specific events. Stress management can be defined as the system with the aim of stress reducing and along with the person who contains this skill can be facilitated in order to adjust with the specific situation. Stress management skill is very much needed for manager for the purpose of attending the meeting and represents the meeting, on that time the manager should control the stress. The above skills such as: leadership skill, time management skill, stress management skills are very much needed for the manager to be successful in his professional life and as well as personal life through which he or she can meet the personal goal and as well as achieve the organizational goal. 3.5 Leadership Skill Leadership skill is considered as the managerial skill which is used for the purpose of motivating the peoples of the group in order to achieve the common goal. In this skill I understand that being a manager, I would try to allocate job to the person who is the most suitable for that role. I would allow employees to work at their own pace. I would only interrupt them when they need my help. Maslow hierarchy of need is a very good tool for managers and leaders to motivate their employees and getting work at their full potential . 4. Recommendations There are existed several methods of that are appropriate for the purpose of advancing the skill of professional and personal such as: leadership skill, time management skill, stress management skills are very much needed for the manager to be successful in his professional life and as well as personal life through which he or she can meet the personal goal and as well as achieve the organizational goal. For the purpose of developing these required skills, some ways can be adopted and these ways are described below: Maslow hierarchy of need as a best tool to manage people in any organisation Training program for yourself and subordinates Create the link in between the problems and try to solve it Create relationship in between solving the problem and making decision as well. Provide required resources on developing the problem skill Here, training program and practice to develop the professional and personal skill as by own are considered as the most practical method which is used for the purpose of developing the personal and professional skill. The program of training is mainly related with the process of learning which consists of the knowledge acquisition, skill sharpening, attitudes and behaviours changes, in order to employee performance enhancing. Not only this, by practicing as by the person own, one person can achieve the required skill such as: by practising, the person can manage the time, can solve the problem. 4.1 Personal Development Plan: The definition of personal development plan can be provided as the persons skill development which is considered as significant thing in relation to the development or establishment of personal and as well as the professional career. For the purpose of developing the individual personal personality, making the plan for personal development is very much needed. In order to achieve capability and as well as being confident in the professional life, personal development plan provides support to the person. In relation with the building up a career, the two main aspects are personal characteristics development and as well as the characteristics are developed for making good professional life. So it can be said that a person should have to make a plan of personal development. Here, in relation to the personal and professional and as well as organizational objectives, the Kolbs learning style is used through which it is possible to find out the way of learning along with suitable method ca n also be identified to for the purpose of achieving the objectives of personal and professional and as well as organizational objectives. There are existed several methods of that are appropriate for the purpose of advancing the skill of professional and personal such as: leadership skill, time management skill, stress management skills are very much needed for the manager to be successful in his professional life and as well as personal life through which he or she can meet the personal goal and as well as achieve the organizational goal. For the purpose of developing these required skills, some ways can be adopted and these ways are described below: The approach as structured are used for the purpose of solving the problem Provide training program Create the link in between the problems and try to solve it Create relationship in between solving the problem and making decision as well Problem can be solves through get support from the people by taking their opinion and as well as use the required resources on developing the problem skill Here, training program and practice to develop the professional and personal skill as by own are considered as the most practical method which is used for the purpose of developing the personal and professional skill. The program of training is mainly related with the process of learning which consists of the knowledge acquisition, skill sharpening, attitudes and behaviours changes, in order to employee performance enhancing. Not only this, by practicing as by the person own, one person can achieve the required skill such as: by practising, the person can manage the time, can solve the problem. 5. Continuous professional development: Continuing Professional Development  (CPD) or  Continuing Professional Education  (CPE) is the means by which members of professional associations maintain, improve and broaden their knowledge and skills and develop the personal qualities required in their professional lives. CPD is defined as a commitment to structured skills enhancement and personal or professional competence. CPD can also be defined as the conscious updating of professional knowledge and the improvement of professional competence throughout a persons working life. It is a commitment to being professional, keeping up to date and continuously seeking to improve. It is the key to optimizing a persons career opportunities, both today and for the future. CPD should be engaging, informative and progressive, embracing best practice and easily digestible knowledge. It should neither be excessively demanding nor uninteresting. It should stimulate a desire to learn more about your profession and participate in it 6. Skill audit: There are the questions which consisted of the pointed value: Strongly disagree 1 disagree 2 agree 3 strongly agree 4 CONCLUSION I would say that a person carry on learning in his/her whole age, but in order to become a successful professional. One should develop short, medium and long term plans which should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time_Bound) to improve and overcome the shortcomings and then moving forward to set new goals and objectives. A optimistic approach should be adopted rather than a pessimistic approach. References: http://www.12manage.com/methods_maslow_hierarchy_needs.html http://www.businessballs.com/kolblearningstyles.htm TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. personal and professional skills 1 1.1 Personal Development Plan 1 1.2 Personal and Professional Skills 1 1.2.1 Personal Skills 1 1.2.2 Prioritization 1 1.2.3 Command and Control 2 1.2.4 Learn from Mistakes 2 1.2.5 Contribution towards Personal and Professional Goals 2 1.3 Organization objectives: 2 1.3.1 Planning and Organizing 2 1.3.2 Command and Control 3 1.3.3 Time Management Strategies 3 1.3.4 Establishing objectives 3 1.3.5 Evaluation of spending time: 3 1.3.6 Requirement of skill for achieving personal and organization objective: 4 2. Personal Audit 5 Classroom presenter as confidently 5 3. ongoing personal development plan 8 3.1 Professional Skills 8 3.2 Personal Skills 8 3.3 Time Management Skill 8 3.4 Stress Management Skill 9 3.5 Leadership Skill 9 4. Recommendations 9 4.1 Personal Development Plan: 10 5. Continuous professional development: 11 6. Skill audit: 12 CONCLUSION 14

Short Story Writers :: Writers Literature Fusco Essays

Short Story Writers "And then I woke up."Thus goes the kind of "trick ending" that every first year writing student is told to avoid, a mark of cheap theatrics and poor craftsmanship.Historically, this kind of ending is often associated with Guy de Maupassant, the prolific French writer of the 19th century, or his 20th century American heir apparent, O. Henry (William S. Porter).In this well researched and at moments insightful book, Richard Fusco argues that Maupassant's bad rap as first and foremost the inventor and disseminator of the "trick ending" is undeserved.What Fusco feels Maupassant does deserve is recognition as perhaps the single most important influence on American short story writers of the late 19th and early 20th century, particularly Ambrose Bierce, Kate Chopin, Henry James, and of course O. Henry.However, even as Fusco's readings of these writers are laudable in their thoroughness (with the exception of his treatment of O. Henry), his overall argument seems finally too dependent on an understanding of "trick ending" which does not make necessary distinctions, and is therefore superficial enough to accommodate nearly any writer one cares to name. Not that Fusco doesn't differentiate between types of trick endings.In fact, he develops his own seven categories of stories--from the simplest (linear) to most complex (sinusoidal)--based on their varying "placement and number of discovery points for the reader."The first two chapters, where Fusco limits himself to a thorough and interesting analysis of narrative structure in Maupassant, are the best of the book.However, in shifting his terms from "trick endings" to "discovery points," Fusco deprives his argument of its specificity and thus its power. To cite one example: Fusco argues that Maupassant and Bierce were similar in that they "favored fictive structures that depended on last-second, ironic reversals in the reader's perception."He then uses this theorized similarity to compare Maupassant's much-anthologized "The Necklace" to the that of Bierce's equally popular "Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge."In analyzing these (and other) stories by the two writers, Fusco uses Poe's "unity of effect" as a synonym for "discovery point" (which is in itself too reductionist a reading of what Poe meant).However, unity of effect for Maupassant in "The Necklace" is utterly dependent on information unavailable to the reader, i.e., that the necklace is paste, and thus the reader's "discovery" depends entirely on an absence, a trick of concealment, as in a "bad" murder mystery.In "Owl Creek," on the other hand, one need only read closely in the section where Peyton first falls from the bridge (and, in reality, dies) to obtain all the informatio n necessary to correctly interpret the rest of the story as an hallucination.

Voice Over Internet Protocol Attacks Essay -- Information Technology

Definition: VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a type of transmissions medium that is responsible for the delivery of real-time voice and data communication. Unlike its analog predecessor in which the transport functionality was routed via the public switched telephone network (PSTN), calls are now converted from an analog signal to a digital format, which is what the Internet Protocol (IP) uses for transmission and delivery, making VoIP possible. Several other key processes, such as signaling, authentication, security, call control, and voice compression, are established by VoIP prior to and during the call setup phase. (Harper, 2011) Essentially, VoIP converts your voice into a digital signal that is sent via the internet. The signal is converted to a standard phone signal before it goes to a land line. There are a few ways that VoIP calls are made; computer to computer, computer to a network, and network to network. How VoIP works The way VoIP works is by using what is called an analog telephone adaptor (ATA). The ATA allows you to connect your phone line to your computer and that allows you to make phone calls across the Internet. The ATA converts the signal from analog to digital. The analog signal is taken from your regular phone and makes it a digital signal so that it can be transmitted through the Internet. One of the most popular providers for VoIP services is Vonage. AT&T is also a provider that uses VoIP and they include an ATA as part of its VoIP service. The setup is actually pretty straightforward, and is a pretty simple installation. Basically, what is required is plugging your phone line into the ATA, and running a phone line out of the ATA into your computer. Tools of the trade I... ...ding_voip.pdf Edwards, J. (2007, January 11). Voip scams, phishing, and denial of service attacks. Retrieved from http://www.voip-news.com/feature/voip-scams-phishing-dos-011107/ Harper, Allen; Shon Harris; Jonathan Ness; Chris Eagle; Gideon Lenkey; Terron Williams (2011-01-12). Gray Hat Hacking The Ethical Hackers Handbook, 3rd Edition (Kindle Locations 7554-7557). McGraw-Hill Osborne Media. Kindle Edition. Harper, Allen; Shon Harris; Jonathan Ness; Chris Eagle; Gideon Lenkey; Terron Williams (2011-01-12). Gray Hat Hacking The Ethical Hackers Handbook, 3rd Edition (Kindle Location 7554). McGraw-Hill Osborne Media. Kindle Edition. Harper, Allen; Shon Harris; Jonathan Ness; Chris Eagle; Gideon Lenkey; Terron Williams (2011-01-12). Gray Hat Hacking The Ethical Hackers Handbook, 3rd Edition (Kindle Locations 7552-7554). McGraw-Hill Osborne Media. Kindle Edition.

Korea Essay -- essays research papers

The Korean Religious Heritage Korea's religious heritage has contributed to the teaching of the Unification Church. Since it first appeared on Korean soil and was nourished by the Korean philosophy of life, the new movement was naturally influenced to some extent by its environment. Just as Eastern Orthodoxy cannot be understood apart from Christian Hellenism, and Roman Catholicism is a product of Latin civilization, so the Unification Church greatly profited from the religious development of its homeland. Korea's indigenous religion, like that of most early cultures, was a form of shamanism. This original faith has never completely disappeared and still exerts considerable influence. Ancient Koreans believed in a variety of supernatural spirits, both good and evil. But more important was the one supreme Spirit, Hananim, the creator and beneficent ruler over creation. This high God was worshipped at mountain shrines; and to win his favor animal sacrifices were offered at appropriate times. Springtime and harvest festivals were particularly important. For more details, one can look at my book entitled Faiths of the Far East. 1 For our purposes, it is merely necessary to point out that from time immemorial Koreans believed in the existence of one Lord of heaven and earth as well as numerous lesser spirits. From earliest times Koreans have experienced direct contact with supernatural powers. Furthermore, shamanism emphasized Korea's unique role in history. Traditionally, Koreans dressed in white, because this symbolized their faith that they were children of the divine light. For centuries the shamans taught that Koreans had been chosen for a special purpose in God's plan for mankind. One should therefore not overlook the religious dimension of Korean nationalism. Then, as Buddhism spread from India across East Asia, it was planted in Korea. For a thousand years, Mahayana Buddhism, which came via China, was the court religion and popular faith of the Korean monarchy. Numerous Buddhist temples were erected at government expense. Monks and nuns became a normal feature of Korean society. Education and the fine arts were inspired by Buddhist teachings. Powerful abbots were advisors to the king as well as being the teachers of conventional morality. It would be impossible to exaggerate the religious, ethical and cultural effect which a millennium of Buddhist life a... ...s case came to trial several months later, he was completely exonerated. In spite of persecution, the Unification Church continued to grow. In 1958 a missionary was sent to Japan and the following year I came to Eugene, Oregon, as the first missionary to the United States. By 1975 missionary teams had been sent to one hundred and twenty countries. In 1960 Reverend Moon married Hak Ja Han. He and his wife moved to America in 1972, where he had begun nation-wide speaking tours. These culminated in the Madison Square Garden rally. As a result of this American publicity, the foundation was laid for an immense World Rally for Korean Freedom in Seoul at which Reverend Moon spoke to more than one million people on June 7, 1975. His Yankee Stadium appearance took place on June 1, 1976, and the Washington Monument Rally on September 18, 1976, provided an appropriate finale to Reverend Moon's public speaking campaigns in the United States. Throughout his life, his motto has been: To restore the world, Let us go forth With the heart of the Father In the shoes of a servant, Shedding sweat for the earth, Tears for man And blood for heaven. 9 Hyo-Won Eu. The Apostolic Herald, November, 1956.

The contribution of infrastructure to Nigeria’s economic development and future prospects

Introduction There is general consensus that there is a positive relationship between development in the financial sector and economic growth providing the means to mobilize and to allocate funds in the economy (Masha et al., 2004; Shaw, 1973). However, financial development is also shown to be inadequate to cause economic development often being considered to be a passive handmaiden serving to enhance the output and contribution of the real sector (production) (Firzli and Bazi, 2011; Olaseni and Alade, 2012). There is therefore need for enhanced focus on the growth of the real sector, which in most cases is private sector driven and includes economic activities of a country’s citizenry. Herein lay the import of infrastructure development and the need for its aligned pursuit with financial sector development for enhanced national economic development. This research assesses the potential for utilizing infrastructure investment to enhance economic development in Nigeria, seeking to show nee d for enhanced focus on infrastructure investments to achieve the country’s desired economic growth and a positive future prospects. Aim of research This research proposes that there is significant potential for utilization of infrastructure investment to achieve enhance economic development of Nigeria. Through the assessment of this potential and analysis of government efforts towards managing infrastructure inadequacies, this research endeavours to answer the question: What is the potential for utilizing infrastructure investment to enhance economic development in NigeriaIt seeks to show that infrastructure investments are justifiable in the quest for economic growth and robust future economic development prospects for Nigeria. Research Objectives With regard to its overarching theme, this research aims to achieve the following objectives: To assess the correlation between infrastructure development and economic growth To assess infrastructure inadequacies in Nigeria impeding the country’s economic growth and what measures are being taken to address them. To evaluate impact of infrastructure development past and present on Nigeria’s future prospects and economic outlook. Structure of proposal Following is a review of literature which lays the foundation for the subject under study. It is followed by the research Methodology outlining techniques and approaches employed in the conduct of study. Literature review There is general consensus that there is a positive relationship between development in the financial sector and economic growth. While acknowledging that financial institutions provide the means to mobilize and allocate funds in the economy hence enhancing development, Schumpeter, in his 1934 work, did not perceive financial sector development as being the cause of economic development. Later in 1954, Robinson supports this view arguing that the financial sector is a handmaiden of economic development, which is passive and responds to needs in the real sector (which encompasses economic production including manufacturing) and therefore growth in the real economy (Masha et al, 2004). However, McKinnon (1973) and Shaw (1973) argue that the financial sector can be more than a passive handmaiden and a major driver of economic growth if it is relieved of its restraints. With repression, they argue that the financial sector responds passively to the needs in the real-sector and can only d rive economic development if liberalized. It is settled for most research work that there is a definite link, between growth in the financial sector and in the real sector (economic production). In an article in 2005, Asagowa identified close to ten indices of growth and deepening of the financial sector. These include rate of growth of all-encompassing money relative to GDP (diversification of the economy), interest rates spread, and ratio of financial assets to GDP, among others (Babatunde, et al, 2012). Infrastructure is a significant contributor to growth in sectors of the economy such as manufacturing and other forms of production easing and facilitating essential constituent processes. Financial sector reforms and economic development Up until the fourth quarter of 1986, Nigeria pursued a government-led economic development paradigm guided by National Development Plans. The government dominated all sectors of the economy including agriculture, commerce, services (especially transportation), and industry, among others, with the private sector playing a passive role. Since its independence in 1960 and subsequent discovery and exploitation of oil through the 1970s, the government had sufficient resources to finance these development plans to a reasonable proportion (World Bank, 2010). However, poor fiscal discipline consequent to the revenue windfalls deriving from oil saddled the nation with a significant external debt burden. The disregard of other sectors of the economy led to a fall in international trade, and as well resulted in high unemployment rates and slow growth of output. These led the government to rethink its underlying philosophy of development resulting in a shift in paradigm to a private sector-led p aradigm. With this shift came relief of stringent regulations governing every sector which were put up to enhance government control but which impeded the enhancement of performance and growth (Akinyosoye, 2010). In 1984, therefore, a programme was fashioned called the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) which attempted to move the country away from direct government control of economic activities to indirect control such as through market forces. This involved widespread deregulation of trade, exchange, finance, among others. However, in spite of the increase in the number of financial institutions and greater variety of financial instruments and freedoms, the real economy showed no marked improvement with all macroeconomic indicators declining three years into the new millennium (World Bank, 2013). The country suffered debilitating external debt, high inflation (highest at 72.8% in 1995) (FMW, 2012: NNBS, 2013), high level of fiscal debt, underemployment and low capacity utiliza tion in industry and agriculture. There was general distress also in the financial sector with high levels of insolvency and non-performing loans (Firzli and Bazi, 2011). Financial reforms have not been entirely successful translating into economic growth to desired levels. In this regard, there is need for aligned pursuit of growth in the financial sector with that in the real sector, which is facilitated by infrastructure development. Herein lay the import of infrastructure development. Infrastructure and economic development Infrastructure is herein defined to include the sectors of transport, water and sanitation, telecommunications, power, among others. In all countries across the globe, this aspect represents a large portfolio of expenditure, ranging from a third to a half of public investment (Akinyosoye, 2010). Given the intense capital requirement and the length of time it takes for benefits to manifest, there has been concern and debate among economic policy makers, politicians and the general public regarding the performance of infrastructure and its impact on economic development (Patunola-Ajayi, 2013). However, AEO (2013) and WEF (2010) among others present a widespread agreement that the inadequacy of physical infrastructure in a country is among major constraints impeding sustained and broad-based economic development. There are various correlations between infrastructure and economic activity. In the short term, the construction phase is associated with attendant decision in the public secto r that could have an influence on macroeconomic variables such as GDP, employment, public deficit, inflation, among others. The public investment thus expands aggregate demand, yielding a boost to employment, production and income (Patunola-Ajayi, 2013). In the medium and long term (the utilization phase), there are macroeconomic effects such as increases in productivity over the territory and in the private sector, as well as its effect on the degree of competitiveness of an economy (ADB, 2012; Foster and Briceno-Garmendia, 2010). Additionally, various benefits derive from infrastructure development. The availability of infrastructure influences the marginal productivity of private capital with investment of public capital in infrastructure in a particular location often attracting additional flow of resources (Akinyosoye, 2010; ADB, 2012). Infrastructure services such as transportation, electricity, and water are also intermediate inputs to production. Public capital invested in i nfrastructure therefore complements private capital and serves to enhance economic development (ADB, 2012; World Bank, 2010). Services thereby generated as a result of sufficiency of infrastructure translate into increased aggregate output. At the microeconomic level, the effect of infrastructure is specifically seen through the reduction in the cost of production derived from its impact on profitability, output levels, employment and incomes (Myers, 2007). This is particularly the case for small and medium scale enterprises. Extensive and efficient infrastructure is critical in ensuring effective functioning of the economy and is an important factor in the determination of the location of economic activity and the kind of sectors and/or economic activities that can develop in a particular economy (Patunola-Ajayi, 2013). There is also the intermediate input for economic development which encompasses higher productivity obtained from improved human capacity development. This can be a ttained through improvements in healthcare, nutrition, education, better roads and transportation, and access to electricity to households as well as telecommunication services which enable the creative engagement of citizens and access to core economic activities (Wilhelm, 2010; Akinyosoye, 2010). On a global scale, and regarding international trade (trade logistics), there is also an impact on the cost and quality of service which determine competitiveness in export and import markets. Infrastructure reduces the effect of distance between regions, enables the integration of national markets, and creates connections at lower cost to markets in other regions or countries (WEF, 2010; ADB, 2012; KPMG, 2012). A remarkable positive effect of infrastructure development has been adduced by models such as the Cobb-Douglas which yield a median value of 0.30. This means that public investment equivalent to 100% of the public capital stock would lead to a 300% growth of private production (Ba batunde, et al, 2012). Investment in infrastructure is therefore among the important mechanisms through which to increase income, employment, productivity, and consequently, the competitiveness of the economy. Infrastructure development in Nigeria Nigeria’s economic growth is largely driven by the capital-intensive oil sector which continues to drive the economy. The average growth of this sector was about 8% comparable to -0.35% for the non-oil sectors (NNBS, 2013). Given its limited job creation capacity, focus on this sector has not translated into sufficient jobs resulting in poverty and disenfranchisement of the greater population and, therefore, the country’s low rank in the Human Development Index (HDI) (NNBS, 2013; The Guardian, 2012). In this regard, King, 2003; FMW, 2012 and AEO, 2013; show that economic growth has not translated into sufficient job creation and/or poverty alleviation with unemployment increasing from 21% in 2010 to 24% in 2011 (King, 2003; NNBS, 2013). The country’s outlook for growth remains positive, though, with an annual economic growth rate of about 8% (KPMG, 2011; NNBS, 2013), and an anticipated GDP growth rate of about 12% in the next five years (NNBS, 2013; AEO, 2013). T his outlook pegs its vision 20:2020’s aspiration to achieve a GDP of $900 billion (FMW, 2012; NNBS, 2013) predicated on improved sectoral performance, the propulsion of a better business environment, and supportive government policies focused on stability in the macroeconomic environment and increased investment. This is however challenged by short and medium term downside risks which include security challenges due to religious conflict in some of its states, slowed global economic growth in major economies of the world and the crisis of the Eurozone (Olaseni and Alade, 2012). There is therefore a great need to diversify the Nigerian economy making it broad-based (both socially and geographically) and to expand the sources of growth. The development of agriculture, manufacturing and services could enable the broadening of growth, creation of employment and reduction of poverty (AEO, 2013). The country is therefore addressing the infrastructure deficit in the country to creat e linkages and to enable such diversification which would enable inclusive growth (FMW, 2012). Infrastructure made a one percentage point net contribution to the country’s improved per capita growth performance in recent years (NNBS, 2013), notably held back by unreliable power supply (Olaseni and Alade, 2012). In spite of the obvious importance of infrastructure to the nation, governments both at the national and local levels have continued to pay lip service to the provision of infrastructure (Financial News, 2014). As a consequence, the country’s growth prospect is undermined. The following section offers a glimpse at some of the country’s major infrastructure inadequacies. Inadequacies in infrastructure developmentUrban housingLack of proper planning and management of rapid urbanization has led to uncontrolled growth in major cities and towns to accommodate an informal economy which stands at 60-70%. This has had a negative impact on the landscapes of urban centres, leading to decay of inner cities, growth of shanty towns especially in peri-urban areas, consequently limiting their contribution to the national economy being inimical to security and good governance (UN Habitat, 2010).TransportThroughout the country, roads are neglected, particularly those connecting major cities, the sea port and commercial centres to the hinterland which are bad and deteriorating. Efforts at repair are often in vain due to the use of substandard materials. Though having the potential to provide a cheaper means of transport, the existing rail network is old and dilapidated, having served half a century after being built by the British colonial government (ADB, 2012). Att empts to procure new coaches or to create new routes have not succeeded. This has fostered the development of a disorganized and unregulated private sector freight and passenger road transport system, which has resulted in traffic congestion in cities, increase in motor accidents, and environmental pollution (UN Habitat, 2010). Given Nigeria’s endowment of waterways and long stretches of coast with potential for transportation, this option, which could ease congestion on roads and aid easier movements, is neglected and the water ways are left undeveloped. There are only a few canoe and ferry routes which are ill-equipped having no good jetties, harbours, safer boats or ferries. The recently refurbished mini-port at Ikorodu, Lagos State provides relief to commuters going through the Ikorodu-Lagos-Lekki road where they now only cross by ferry to Ajah (Akinyosoye, 2010). This is evidence of potential and should be replicated across the country. Transportation of heavy cargo thro ugh waterways can save pressure on roads. There have been recent attempts to improve/ renovate airports which have for a long time remained in deplorable condition, and to address the challenge of adequate capacity. Travelling by air is still expensive in Nigeria compared to international standards with charter options such as helicopter, cargo and passenger planes largely untapped. Air transport has the exceptional advantage in terms of speed, time of travel and distance considerations. It is also of high value in relation to weight and is preferred when accessibility is a challenge (Akinyosoye, 2010).Electricity supplyThough it forms a significant avenue for economic empowerment of the people and country as a whole, the power crisis in Nigeria persists. Irregular supply impedes production and manufacturing and consequently some entities have had to relocate leading to loss of employment opportunities (UN Habitat, 2010). The country currently generates 4000MW which is inadequate co mpared to South Africa’s 34000MW (Olaseni and Alade, 2012). There are however efforts and resources being planned in the medium term towards enhancement of power supply but quite a lot needs to be done given the importance of power in economic development and well-being of citizens who make use of generators for their power requirements (Olaseni and Alade, 2012).Water supply infrastructurePopulation pressure has strained water supply capacity with damaged supply pipes, deteriorating water treatment infrastructure and erratic power supply challenging the supply of safe water to the population. To many, the main sources of water are boreholes, wells, springs, flowing rivers, and brooks whose safety for human consumption is not guaranteed. Poor sanitation and consequent diseases impacts overall health and well-being of citizens and their productivity (UN Habitat, 2010).CommunicationThe emergence of cellular phones has revolutionized the public and private business environment, b ridging communication gaps that hitherto existed. There has subsequently been a reduction in unproductive business trips and an enhancement of transactions. High prices of service and poor reception, inadequate capacity and coverage however need to be addressed for this aspect to facilitate expected economic growth (Financial News, 2014). There is obviously greater need for the Nigerian government and constituent states to develop adequate and effective infrastructure. This requires a more strategic approach to tackle its dearth which has been deemed to constrain the required economic development. There needs to be robust strategic planning, strong political will, as well as the right procurement approach to achieve long term success (Akinyosoye, 2010; AEO, 2013). According to World Bank (2013) estimates, Nigeria’s vision and aspiration to attain middle income status by 2020 requires sustained investment in infrastructure of about $14.2 billion over the next decade which is a bout 12% of its GDP. The current investment is $5.9 billion (5% of GDP) (NNBS, 2013) falls short. Expenditure on food imports is a significant at $90 billion a year (NNBS, 2013; World Bank, 2013) and is unnecessary given Nigeria’s potential in agriculture, taking up resources that could finance infrastructure development (World Bank, 2013). Reducing this bill requires investment in enabling infrastructure such as rural energy, transport systems, telecommunication and irrigation systems. However, much of Nigeria’s impetus for rural development will derive from investments at the level of the State though such infrastructure run by the State and government is prone to low maintenance and support, hindering efficiency and effectiveness (Olaseni and Alade, 2012). Current development of public infrastructure is occurring in tandem with a huge expansion of private sector developments, particularly in the property market (ADB, 2012). Continued urbanization and an emerging mid dle class, as well as a shortfall in quality office space for investor companies are key drivers for this wave of real estate development (KPMG, 2011; FMW, 2012). The success of ambitious infrastructure developments is likely to increase investors’ appetite to expand their operations and capture the anticipated growth, portends significant potential for economic growth (AEO, 2013). MethodologyResearch PhilosophyThis study employs a pragmatic philosophy which embraces both positivism in its opening up and confirming valid causal relationships which can therefore be used for prediction; and subjectivism which appreciates the difference between humans as social actors, with varied views of reality, values and knowledge (Creswell, 2002). Focus in this regard is on observable phenomena and their subjective meanings driving applied research integrating different perspectives to help in the interpretation of data.Study Technique and StrategyGiven the contextual nature of the study and its focus being an attempt to gauge the impact of infrastructure development on Nigeria’s economy, a qualitative inductive approach is deemed to be a suitable approach enabling a detailed exploration of the subject (Quirke, B., 2008). The inductive approach is useful in condensing varied and extensive data into a brief and summarized format while establishing links between researc h objectives and findings obtained (Saunders et al., 2000). This technique involves the exploration of published literature on the subject including government reports, working papers, as well as journals and other relevant literature. This research also employs a quantitative technique in the conduct of interviews in a social survey to targeted experts in Nigeria’s development ministry as well as government leaders in sample states. This would enable the acquisition of information on actual infrastructure investment and development, cross-checked to the particular region by local officials towards the realization of study objectives. This would also enable the acquisition of opinions and information on the actual contribution of infrastructure to increased economic activity in the various regions, and/or the enhancement of life which is a precursor to increased productivity.Practical ImplementationThe targeted experts chosen for the survey include random sample of 20 officia ls in the national Federal Government in charge of oversight of infrastructure development in the country’s 36 Federal States and the administrative areas of the Federal Capital territory and urban councils. This will enable the attainment of a comprehensive view of projects and prospects given that they comprise the control centre for the entire nation, and arebetter placed to notice and to identify increases in economic activity reflected in increase in revenues to Local government areas and urban councils, and tax revenues to the nation state. This survey will take the form of a structured interview administered by the researcher, a method which ensures consistency of results obtained and answers that can reliably be aggregated. Its format is as appears in Appendix: A comprising both closed- and open-ended questions which afford the research the capability to compare and/or contrast interviewee responses in order to answer the research question (Creswell, 2002).Analysis ap proachData obtained from interviews will be analysed using SPSS which enables the production of graphs which would enable the study to show correlations between infrastructure development and increase in economic activity (growth in the real sector) which enables evaluation of its actual or potential impact. A wide and extensive exploration of literature, as well as congruence on the ground as assessed by target experts enhances reliability and validity of data obtained (Creswell, 2002). The choice of a representative sample from across the entire country enhances the study’s generalizability and thereofore its capacity to make comprehensive deductions on the subject (Creswell, 2002; Saunders et al., 2000). Findings showing an increase in economic activities in areas recently served by new or improved infrastructure; entry of medium and large scale investors to locations supported by actual or prospective infrastructure investments; as well as increases in local and federal g overnment revenues signify the contribution of infrastructure investments in increased economic activity engaging the population in the regions and overall expansion in the real sector. These are expected to translate to economic growth and positive future prospects for economic development.Limitations of studyAssessment of the impact and actual correlation of infrastructure development on economic growth might be a challenge given the length of time with which the utilization of infrastructure translates into tangible economic activity and causes observable effect on the country’s economy. Economic growth of a country depends on the interplay of several factors including financial deepening, investor confidence, the encouragement of various economic activities, among other socio-cultural and policy factors. The isolation of the contribution of infrastructure development is therefore a challenge and might affect the outcome of this research.Ethical ConsiderationsIt is imperat ive in research to ensure that the survey approach and activities do not portend psychological or social harm to interviewees. An initial important and significant step is in ensuring that the researcher seeks informed consent from the particular interviewees and as well from their superiors in departments or other actors whose areas of duty and responsibility may be touched by the inquiry. This would ensure that there are no breaches in confidentiality, and also ensures that interviewees are not put in tight spots and forced to discuss sensitive areas and information which may be of psychological harm. The researcher should also be keen to note potential language barriers and cultural practices such as cultural gender power disparities that may impede the smooth progress of the interview and which may also negatively impact the interviewees making them feel incompetent or hindered in their participation. In such cases, the researcher should seek support of interpreters and agreeabl e individuals to help out in the conduct of the interview enhancing comfort and therefore output. Alongside the above considerations, it is also worthwhile to ensure that time set aside for interviews and other activities such as prior meetings is properly consented to both by management or superiors in the relevant departments in which the interviewers are, as well as by the interviewees themselves. This would ensure that the interviews and related activities do not infringe on official or personal schedules, as well as personal, cultural or religious preferences or obligations. The interviewee should also be informed of their right to answer a particular question or to terminate the interview altogether. The researcher in this study therefore in the foregoing will endeavour to obtain proper consent for study survey; respect privacy and goodwill of participants by not asking hypersensitive or confidential information; respect cultural norms and individual preferences of interviewee s; ensure the confidentiality of data collected protecting it from access by third parties, and, to honestly and accurately report information obtained from the survey, avoiding the identification of interviewees if they wish that their identity be waived. Conclusion Reform in Nigeria’s financial sector is inadequate for economic development if the economy is not diversified and if citizens are not engaged in worthwhile economic activity. For the government to achieve this shift there needs to be a focus on infrastructure development, which would encourage private investments, enhance well-being of citizens, reduce existing constraints, and overall increase in economic activity which contribute to economic growth. Further research is required to clearly show correlations between investment in infrastructure and economic growth and future economic prospects. This would enable its effects to be isolated from among other factors such as financial deepening which are also essential for economic growth and development. References African Development Bank, 2012. An Infrastructure Action Plan for Nigeria: Closing the Infrastructure Gap and Accelerating Economic Transformation. ADB Group report Africa Economic Outlook, 2013. Nigeria Economic Outlook. AEO Report Akinyosoye, M., 2010. Infrastructure Development in Nigeria: Roadmap to Sustainable Development. 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