English Proficiency Essay

Language proficiency or linguistic proficiency is the ability of an individual to speak or perform in an acquired language. As theories vary among pedagogues as to what constitutes proficiency,[1] there is little consistency as to how different organizations classify it. Additionally, fluency and language competence are generally recognized as being related, but separate controversial subjects. In predominant frameworks in the United States, proficient speakers demonstrate both accuracy and fluency, and use a variety of discourse strategies.[2] Thus, native speakers of a language can be fluent without being considered proficient. ————————————————- Organizations ACTFL The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) distinguishes between proficiency and performance. In part, ACTFL’s definition of proficiency is derived from mandates issued by the US government, declaring that a limited English proficient student is one who comes from a non-English background and â€Å"who has sufficient difficulty speaking, reading, writing, or understanding the English language and whose difficulties may deny such an individual the opportunity to learn successfully in classrooms where the language of instruction is English or to participate fully in our society.† ACTFL views â€Å"performance† as being the combined effect of all three modes of communication: interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational. ————————————————- Proficiency frameworks Note that test scores may not correlate reliably, as different understandings of proficiency lead to different types of assessment: * FSI Test (Foreign Service Institute) Scores range from 0 to 5+.[3] (deprecated) * Interagency Language Roundtable Scores range from 0 to 5.[4] (evolved from FSI) * Language Proficiency Index * ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines ACTFL recognises ten different levels of proficiency: â€Å"novice†, â€Å"intermediate†, â€Å"advanced†, and â€Å"superior†, of which the first three are each subdivided into â€Å"low†, â€Å"mid†, and â€Å"high†. * Common European Framework of Reference for Languages CEF recognises six levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. Proficiency tests * CELPE-Bras (Certificate of Proficiency in Portuguese for Foreigners) * Defense Language Proficiency Tests * DELE (Diplomas of Spanish as Foreign Language) * Examination for Japanese University Admission * General English Proficiency Test * Hà  nyÇ” ShuÇ pà ­ng KÇŽoshà ¬ (æ ±â€°Ã¨ ¯ ­Ã¦ ° ´Ã¥ ¹ ³Ã¨â‚¬Æ'è ¯â€¢) * IELTS (International English Language Testing System) * iTEP (International Test of English Proficiency * Japanese Language Proficiency Test (æâ€" ¥Ã¦Å" ¬Ã¨ ªÅ¾Ã¨Æ' ½Ã¥Å â€ºÃ¨ © ¦Ã© ¨â€œ Nihongo NÃ… ryoku Shiken) * Language Proficiency Assessment for Teachers * The European Language Certificates (telc – language tests) * TOEFL (Test Of English as a Foreign Language) * TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) * TEPS (Test of English Proficiency developed by Seoul National University) * Test of Russian as a Foreign Language * Test de franà §ais international * Test de connaissance du franà §ais * TOCFL(è  ¯Ã¨ ªÅ¾Ã¦â€"‡èÆ' ½Ã¥Å â€ºÃ¦ ¸ ¬Ã© ©â€" Test of Chinese as a Foreign Language) * UBELT (University of Bath English Language Test) * University of Cambridge ESOL examination See also: Language tests category ————————————————- [edit]Professional organizations * Alliance franà §aise * American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages * Association of Language Testers in Europe * Foreign service institute * Goethe-Institut * UCLES * UNIcert * Instituto Cervantes * UBELT ————————————————- References 1. ^ www.ncela.gwu.edu 2. ^ http://lauder.wharton.upenn.edu 3. ^ www.utm.edu 4. ^ www.utm.edu English proficiency is the the ability to speak, read and/or write in English. To be considered truly proficient, one should have advanced abilities in all three areas of communication. English Proficiency In The Philippines I recently read that 80% of teachers failed their English proficiency exam and that some CallCenters are closing because of a lack of applicants who have a level of English fluencydemanded by the industry.I am a Native Speaker (Canadian / UK) with over 20 years experince presenting Englishlanguage programs for the Canadian federal and provincial governments, several colleges and auniversity. After moving to thePhilippinesI continued my presentions and teaching to foreigners in ESL schools.Recently I decided to change my ESL students. Why should I be teaching foreiners English whenwhat I should be doing is giving the Filipno a chance to improve their chances of having achallenging and rewarding career?. It makes more sense to me, to help them to improve their English to a level of fluency that most companies both here in the Philippines and abroaddemand†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.Lets give the Filipino a chance to improve their position in lifeMy first opportunity was to present my English fluency program to English teachers in the private school sector. 80% failed the initial testing, However, later 80% achieved a much higher level of fluency after completing the program. The EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) is a report which attempts to rank countries by the average level of English skills amongst adults. It is the product of EF Education First, a global language training company, and draws its conclusions from data collected via online English tests available for free over the internet. The report was published for the first time in March, 2011 based on the results of over 2 million test takers.[1] The most recent ranking was released in October, 2012. ——†”—————————————- Methodology The 2012 index is compiled from the results of 1.7 million adults who took one of three short online English tests between 2009 and 2011. The test takers were self-selected and no demographic information was collected on them. The tests are used by the company for marketing and placement purposes. 52 countries and 2 territories appear in the 2012 index. All other countries did not have enough test takers to be considered valid. In order to be included a country was required to have at least 400 test takers total.[2] ————————————————- Findings The report is composed of a country ranking table, several pages of analysis with graphs correlating other economic and social factors with English proficiency, and regional analyses of Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa. The 2012 report includes data for the first time comparing women to men, and comparing different age groups by English proficiency. The website displays portions of the report and has in-depth profiles of the role of English in 15 countries [3] which are not contained in the report. Eleven country factsheets are presented separately from the report. These provide data on how cities and regions scored within the country. Primary conclusions 1. Exports per capita, Gross National Income per capita and average number of years of schooling all correlate positively with English proficiency. That is to say wealthier countries speak better English. 2. The factor that correlates best to English proficiency is Internet usage. 3. Europe as a whole speaks the best English, Latin America the worst. 4. Starting English education younger in school does not necessarily improve adult proficiency. ————————————————- Criticism The EF English Proficiency Index has been criticized for its lack of representative sampling in each country.[4] The report states that participants in the tests are self-selected and must have access to the internet. This pushes the index towards the realm of an online survey rather than a statistically valid evaluation. However there are few alternative comparisons available of countries by their English skills, and those that exist are smaller in scale, as is the case with a reported British Council study,[1] or they have other sampling flaws, as is the case with rankings of countries by standardized English test scores such as the TOEFL.[5] The European Commission performed a language survey, SurveyLang, which tests a representative sample of 15 year old European students on their foreign language skills. The first report and data sets were released for 13 European countries in June 2012 [6] ———————————à ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- References 1. ^ a b English: Who speaks English?. The Economist. Retrieved on 2011-05-29. 2. ^ EF English Proficiency Index – Comparing English skills between countries – EF EPI. Ef.com. Retrieved on 2011-05-29. 3. ^ English around the world – Country profiles – EF EPI. Ef.com. Retrieved on 2011-05-29. 4. ^ The English Blog: EF English Proficiency Ranking. Jeffreyhill.typepad.com (2011-03-30). Retrieved on 2011-05-29. 5. ^ TOEFL: Test and Score Data Summaries. Ets.org. Retrieved on 2011-05-29. 6. ^ [1]. European Commission. Retrieved on 2012-09-20. Communicative Competence and English as an International Language Language is used for expressing our thoughts , and for verbal thinking, problem-solving, and creative writing, but it is used essentially for communication. What makes it difficult to grasp the language user’s systems of representation for communication with others is the fact that the capability of individuals to interact with others through language is a unique quality and at the same time a universal human quality. The successful language use for communication presupposes the development of communicative competence in the users of that language and that the use of language is constrained by the socio-cultural norms of the society where the language is used. The use of English in Britain is influenced by the British socio-cultural norms which underlie individual differences. So are American English, Indian English, Nigerian English, and Singaporean English. That holds true in areas where English is used daily either as a native language or as a second language. In the use of English for international communication, however, what society’s or societies’ socio-cultural norms should be observed? Should they be the Anglo-American norms because speakers use American or British English as the model? Or would they be the socio-cultural norms of speakers’ native societies, which are not conspicuous nevertheless inevitably ooze out? Or is there what might be called pan- human or universal socio-cultural norm(s) overarching individual societies and cultures? In this paper, I would first review communicative competence briefly, then discuss what English as an International Language (EIL) is, and lastly argue that communicative competence, especially socio-cultural competence, of EIL speakers does not necessarily need to be that of native English speakers. English Proficiency English nowadays is considered as the universal language; for which it is understood by almost all countries around the world. It is used by most people as their second language. First, it is a way of communication in business, negotiations & especially in academics. It plays an important role in the basic education, particularly to speaking and writing (Kumar, 2009). English proficiency must be treated as an additional skill. In reality, a country needs to build familiarity, friendship and collaborate with other countries as well. It is the government’s obligation to give good quality of education to be able to work and communicate in a wider and competitive world (Alave, 2006). English proficiency pertains to the ability to speak, read and write in English. To be considered as truly proficient, you should have an advanced skill in this. We know that English is the universal language, to communicate to those people in other countries; you have to speak in English so they will understand what you are saying. We all know that lately, our country, Philippines is known for being English proficient of its citizen. But, this advantage is being eroded by other rising competitions with declining mastery of some college graduates. Just recently, a language test was taken by IDP Education Pty. Ltd. Philippines which showed that our country is no longer the top English-speaking country in Asia. This may be so because some students nowadays do not even try to enhance their English skill. LOW ENGLISH PROFICIENCY; CAUSES AND EFFECTS TO UNIVERSITY STUDENTS The low levels of English proficiency among university students nowadays becoming a hot issue among academic thinkers. This is because the students’ English language skills are not being developed during their higher education experience. Thus, reflects negatively on the quality of higher education and its graduates. The factors low English proficiency among most learners are due to two factors; internal factors such as no confident when using English, negative attitude towards the English language and external factor like the limited opportunities to use English outside the classroom. Most learners have lack of confidence when using English language. For example, the person that has low self-confidence may refuse to use the language in publics. Anna Freud once said â€Å"I was always looking outside myself for strength and confidence but it comes from within. It is there all the time.† This shown that confident levels are decreasing when the learners are lack of self-confidence to use this language. They are afraid to be wrong and prejudiced about it. The second reason is the negative attitudes towards the English language. For information, attitude has been defined as the inclination to act or to be in a state of ‘readiness’ to act (Gagne, 1985). The learners just learnt English for pass the examination not using it as their second language. Students in university generally find it difficult to maintain their interest in English language learning as English is not seen as important for their immediate needs other than to pass their examination. A lot of negative attitudes build up from unfamiliarity with the culture of the target language (Tucker and lambert, 1973). Malay students from small towns or rural places usually grown up in a situation that English is unimportant language, not like their speaking homes language, Bahasa Melayu. English Proficiency for Global Competitiveness For some years, the Philippines was well-known as the only English-speaking country in Southeast Asia. The fluency of the English language came from the Americans who once occupied our coasts. In that period of time, we stood at an advantage from our neighbor countries. We got a lot of profits because we could speak the language that most developed countries use. Filipinos had already been capable of persuading foreign investors to set in our country even before other Asian countries realized the need to train their citizens in utilizing the English language to be able to converse with other countries and increase their economies. That is why we held a great promise of development during those times. After some years, we shifted to use our national language as the medium for instruction in school, government facilities, and everywhere with our belief that people would learn better and they would become more nationalistic. The advocates of the English language, then, suddenly had to give way to those who are in favor of our native language. Language, indeed, became an issue. Well, it does not mean that if we use the English language, we are less nationalistic. We have been using Filipino in our lives for several years already and we have actually seen its effect. We could say that it had not really made a significant difference in terms of the students’ rate of learning and development in our country. I think, it is about time that we embrace the use of the English language once more so we could be more competitive globally. Surely we have to move back to square one as we try to regain the edge that we lost. Right motivation and proper attitude towards the acquisition of the English language will undoubtedly help us become confident and adept in the language. Stop neglecting the English language, let’s use it. English Proficiency in the Philippines Introduction Because English is so widely spoken, it has often been referred to as a â€Å"world language†, the lingua franca of the modern era, and while it is not an official language in most countries, it is currently the language most often taught as a foreign language. The history of the English language really started with the arrival of three Germanic tribes who invaded Britain during the 5th century AD. These tribes, the Angles, the Saxons and the Jutes, crossed the North Sea from what today is Denmark and northern Germany. At that time the inhabitants of Britain spoke a Celtic language. But most of the Celtic speakers were pushed west and north by the invaders – mainly into what is now Wales, Scotland and Ireland. The Angles came from England and their language was called Englisc – from which the words England and English are derived. Approximately 375 million people speak English as their first language. English today is probably the third largest language by number of native speakers, after Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. However, when combining native and non-native speakers it is probably the most commonly spoken language in the world, though possibly second to a combination of the Chinese languages (depending on whether or not distinctions in the latter are classified as â€Å"languages† or â€Å"dialects†). Countries such as the Philippines, Jamaica and Nigeria also have millions of native speakers of dialect continua ranging from an English-based creole to a more standard version of English. Ways to Improve English Proficiency This article was created by a professional writer and edited by experienced copy editors, both qualified members of the Demand Media Studios community. All articles go through an editorial process that includes subject matter guidelines, plagiarism review, fact-checking, and other steps in an effort to provide reliable information. By Gregory Hamel, eHow Contributor 1. o English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Gaining English proficiency can be an important aspect of education in many fields from business to aviation to science. Even native English speakers can benefit from increasing knowledge and improving writing skills. There are many accessible ways to improve English proficiency effectively without taking formal classes. Speak Regularly o One of the most important aspects of gaining proficiency in any language is speaking it regularly. Self-study can improve reading and comprehension skills, but interacting with other English speakers is essential for boosting real-world comprehension and practical use of the English language. If you live in a bilingual home, designate a certain amount of time each day for speaking only in English. Making English-speaking friends, perhaps those interested in learning a different language that you speak, can help increase proficiency. Living in an English-speaking country will help immerse you in the language and increase all aspects of your English knowledge. Media o Watching or listening to media in English is a way to improve English comprehension without feeling like you are studying. Watch popular English movies and listen to English music. Avoid watching dubbed films in favor of those with English voice and subtitles. ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY LEVELS The definitions of the five limited-English language proficiency levels, as well as Level 6, one of two fully-English language proficiency levels, are from PI 13.08(3)(1)-(6), Wisconsin Administrative Rule. Level 7, the other fully-English language proficiency level, is used for purposes of state reporting/state testing. Level 1—Beginning/Preproduction [WIDA level = Entering]: A pupil shall be classified level 1 if the pupil does not understand or speak English with the exception of a few isolated words or expressions. Level 2—Beginning/Production [WIDA level = Beginning]: A pupil shall be classified level 2 if all of the following criteria are met: (a) The pupil understands and speaks conversational and academic English with hesitancy and difficulty. (b) The pupil understands parts of lessons and simple directions. (c) The pupil is at a pre-emergent or emergent level of reading and writing in English, significantly below grade level. Level 3—Intermediate [WIDA level = Developing]: A pupil shall be classified level 3 if all of the following criteria are met: (a) The pupil understands and speaks conversational and academic English with decreasing hesitancy and difficulty. (b) The pupil is post-emergent, developing reading comprehension and writing skills in English. (c) The pupil’s English literacy skills allow the student to demonstrate academic knowledge in content areas with assistance. Level 4—Advanced Intermediate [WIDA level = Expanding]: A pupil shall be classified level 4 if all of the following criteria are met: (a) The pupil understands and speaks conversational English without apparent difficulty, but understands and speaks academic English with some hesitancy. (b) The pupil continues to acquire reading and writing skills in content areas needed to achieve grade level expectations with assistance. ENGLISH PROFICIENCY: HOW MUCH OF A PROBLEM IS IT? For many of us, the state of education in a country speaks volumes. Where English is spoken and taught as a second language, fluency is deemed a basic requirement for proper communication and propagation of ideas and connotes success. Does this fluency actually translate to a country’s economic success and overall standing in the world of nations? Back when American influence on teachers was still strong in the 1950s, I recall instances where all of us, pupils then, were required to speak English in English class or be fined five centavos per instance of speaking in Ilocano, a major dialect of northern Philippines. Five centavos then was a hefty sum. Tagalog, now Filipino, was not commonly in use at the time. Each one of us would try to catch anyone who committed the â€Å"sin† and report it to a classmate assigned to collect the fines who, in turn, would submit the list of offenders to the teacher. We never asked where those collections went. Teachers were the bosses and their word was law. No one questioned them. They stood on pedestals and we looked up to them with much respect. Teaching was a very respectable profession. Looking back, I now realize that our teachers in elementary and high school, then spoke or at least taught us proper English and with much enthusiasm. Perhaps my siblings and I had the added advantage of being raised by parents who happened to be teachers. Several of their brothers and sisters were graduates of the Philippine Normal School. Books we used were brought in by the American teachers and ministers–from readers, to hymnals, to almanacs. There were practically no Filipino authors that we knew of. American influence gave us a decided advantage over our Asian neighbors. The country enjoyed a privileged status in the region as a consequence of this. Engish is the standard form of communication. It’s used worldwide by people who are from different countries but need to communicate with each other. English is also seen as the business language, as for reasons mentioned above. We study it also for the reasons we study any language-we need to have a way to articulate the things we need and desire. English is also used primarily on the internet-which today connects millions of people world wide. English is used in many different countries also because curing the Colonial and Imperial Age, Britain proved to be â€Å"successful† at gaining colonies on different continents around the world. MUCH has been said about the importance of English in our schools and here is another to add to the sum total. There is a saying that if you have something the world wants, it will beat a path to your door wherever you may be; but if the world has something you want, then you have to go out to get it. As of now, what we want from the outside world is the latest knowledge in all fields of human endeavour. Undeniably, most of these are couched in English and to acquire them we have to be proficient in the language. Having acquired and returned with new knowledge, the need is to disseminate it through learning institutions for the benefit of the country. Teaching it to those proficient in English is straight forward. But to recipients who are monolingual in Bahasa Malaysia, translations will be required, and this can be slow and time-consuming. Depending on translations alone is hardly an efficient way to keep up with the latest advances. Perhaps that is why our government is encouraging bilingualism – English and Bahasa Malaysia – in our national schools. But individual proficiency in English will differ and it may require enhancement depending on one’s career leanings. If one wishes to engage in local business or to take up more mundane occupations, then perhaps knowing Bahasa Malaysia alone will be adequate, but of course, a smattering of English will always help. But if one aspires to be a diplomat, a scientist or to enrol in an English university, then a greater depth in English is required. Since Bahasa Malaysia is the national language, it has to be taught in schools. It is the glue that binds our people together for national betterment. English, on the other hand is the currency for international discourse, without which we would be isolated. Hence, until such time when we are an advanced country and our national language is brought to a wider and impeccable level and our people can invent things the world will want, then the world will indeed beat a path to our shores to learn from us and in our national language. C.P.B., Kuala Lumpur. Today, there are many people all of the world study English. Most of people think that maybe english becomes their second language. But have you ever wondered:† Why do we need to learn English†. Why don’t we searching about it? First, English helps you to improve friendship and maybe include our knowledge around the world. Nowadays, many people have a wider friendship around the world. So learning English is an important way to communicate with friends from another countries. Absolutely, learning English can help you to make more friends, we can exchange with a lot of people, improve our relationships. From that, we can learn more, open our knowledge world. Every year, there are lots of teenagers go overseas to learn for themselves, to improve every important, to bring every new thing from another countries to our country. Second, English helps you to connect our country to the world or we can learn more about another countries’s tradition. Learning English, we can introduce every beautiful things, places,†¦ to internaional friends from another countries. Foreigners wil be curious and they will travel to our country. On the contrary, we can understand more special traditional foods, cultures,†¦ from another countries. I think it’s great so we need to learn English Finally, we can find jobsmore easily. Today, all companies need their wokers know at least on language, especially English. In some international companies, every person have to know English well. So we need to learn English in other to have a good job for you. You can see. Learning is very important way to climb on our future stepladder. I hope that people wil learn English for themselves and for their future. English is one of the legacy`s examples that was left by the British colonial rule in Malaysia long time ago. It is one of the most crucial foreign languages in Malaysia and even around the world nowadays, and is used widely and quite extensively in all aspects of daily life. English and the national language of Malaysia, `Bahasa Malaysia`, both play a very important role in tighten together our multicultural nation. English and `Bahasa Malaysia` helps to unite people and to create a unique national awareness. Instead of its history, Malaysia has recently showed a sharp decline in the English language proficiency. According to Murugesan (2003), the decline is largely due to a backwash effect from a change implemented in the early 1960s and 1970s when `Bahasa Malaysia` replaced English as the medium of instruction in schools and as the language used for official matters. On the other hand, according to Lee (2002), the drop in proficiency of English has not been due so much to the emphasis on Malay, but it is primarily the result of bad attitudes to language and poor approaches to the teaching of language. The decline of English language proficiency will lead to other side effects that will someday give out various major problems to us. Due to the decline in our country, it might be a step backward from other country around the world from the information and technology aspect and other related aspects. In this essay, I will critically response about the topic, `English Language Proficiency Should Not Be Taken for Granted` based on the three articles that have been chooses. The first article that I have chooses is mainly about the importance of English language proficiency. The second article talks about the steps that will be taken to enhance the English usage, while the third article discuss about suggestions to strengthen the students English language proficiency.

Theories of Miscommunication

Throughout history people had their media to communicate about matters of public interest. Therefore today mass communication i. e. newspapers, magazines, journals, radio, television, film, video and many more are not new. The history of mass communication however evolved over time where by each culture was dominant during a certain period of time as discussed below. The oral communication culture was dominant during the pre-literate or pre-industrial time, they used the spoken word for communication, nothing was written, no news reports, television, and radio. Everything meant what it was supposed to mean, nothing was like ‘read between the lines. ’ The contrast of oral culture was memory. People relied on their memory, placed a higher value on the present tense. Oral communication is still dominant in areas where the written culture does not exist. Their histories are verbally told through stories and myths. The written and printed communication culture started more or less 6000 years ago with carvings and cave painting, phonetic alphabets have been known for little more than 3000 years ago, and writing as we know it today started way back in 800 BC. After the written word came into existence the spoken word became casual. Writing makes records for the creation of a historical sensibility for example science. In 1450’s a German, Johann Gutenberg invented the printed press. Publishing contributed to the advancement of literacy, publishing contributed to institutions such as schools and by the end of 18th century, printing press had created an entirely new information and mass communication culture. Electronic communication culture is today’s new form of communication, the electronic and digital media dominate the mass communication culture. Today something is true because it’s on the television and internet not because its printed in the newspaper. In the 19th century, photography and film brought about the graphic revolution. Television however is the most dominant communication medium. When defining mass communication one has to define it from different perspectives because of its background and latest developments. For this reason mass communication has to be through the various theoretic perspectives of mass communication which are. Media-materialist, emphasis is on the technical aspects and how technology of medium impacts on the nature of media messages and audiences for example difference between radio and television. Social culturist influence the social factors an media production and reception and functions of social media are emphasized. With the social materialist media and content are mainly seen as reflection on society. Mass communication has got focal points such as communication, medium, message, and recipient, or audience, public nature of mass communication and diverse content of mass communication. A communicator is usually a collective body a group of people responsible for the production of programs, news bulletins, films, newspapers, websites and many more. A medium or a media is usually of technical nature and can involve complicated production and distribution technologies and techniques. Also the channel through which the media content is transmitted and distributed. A message has both concrete and abstract meaning. It is concrete in the form of content being produced for example the newspaper story you can hold and read, a message is abstract in terms of the meaning encoded in the content by the communicator and the meaning the reader,viewer,listener attaches to and derives from the content through their own interpretation of the content. An audience is heterogeneous and usually unknown, without audience there is no media. Other questions related to the focal points in any definition of mass communication are for instance what we mean by ‘mass’ in mass communication? What do we mean by ‘public sphere’, ‘publicness’, and democracy? These questions have been approached from a number of theoretical perspectives. Let’s look at the theories. Julia wood in her book communication theory, explains theories scientific value and that it teaches us how to describe, interpret, understand, evaluate, and predict a phenomenon. It also o provides an over view of the development of a discipline. Its relations with other discipline’s and its future developments. For example effect theories focus on the effect of the media on personal behavior and the developed into a more holistic approach to the effects of the media on society and culture in general. Effect theories started from a behaviorist perspective closely associated with the positivism and behaviorism of the social sciences in the in the first part of the 1900s and then moved onto the more critical approaches presently practiced in the social sciences. Theory teaches us skills of describing, interpreting understanding, evaluating, and predicting a phenomenon such skills can become entrenched in ways we have to deal with our everyday relations such as relationships with colleagues and family members. Goals of theory are to then describe explain understand, predict control and reform. Theory has got building blocks such as: Ontology where we distinguish between two broad views of humanity, determinism and humanism. Epistemology which in philosophical terms is the science of knowledge, we distinguish it between two different schools the objective truth and subjective experience. Purpose according two Wood concerns the purpose of theory, it’s also distinguished between two schools the universalist and situationalists. Focus the fourth building block is concerned with the two broad schools behaviorism and humanism. When evaluating theory Wood 2000:41-47 suggests five criteria; scope, where we have to establish how well and how much a theory describes and explains, Testability, where a theory can be theorized about and investigated by different researchers and they arrive at the same conclusion. Parsimony which refers to simplicity. A theory does not have to be complex. The fourth criterion is utility where theories need to have a practical value in terms of our understanding, controlling and improving of the phenomenon. The goals of mass media are to understand the structures involved and the human agency in influencing these structures. Understanding of the media and its structural relationships will come from different theoretical approaches as discussed below. Different authors have different ways of categorizing theories, Little John (1992:341-374) distinguishes between macro and micro theories, Mcquail(2000:61-16) distinguishes between theories and approaches concerned with the relationships between media and society and between media and culture and a third branch of new theories and approaches concerned with relationships between new media and information society. How we think about the power of media, the media effects on behavior, and the functions of the media in society and so on is usually done from a specific theoretical approach. Below we distinguish between the seven perspectives. The positivistic approach emphasizes on scientific methods on knowledge derived from scientifically processed and analyzed data about a phenomenon. The scientific method requires that all phenomena should be treated in the same way. In research the same rules and same requirements have to be applied and met regardless of the phenomena under investigation. Assumptions in positivism Application of the scientific method involves processes of empirical research which will yield objective findings and will ensure that no subjective elements intervene to influence the validity of the findings. This reasoning rests on the assumption that phenomena’s are governed by universal laws which may be relevant through the application of the scientific method. It comprises of certain fixed steps which must be followed by all researchers and requires use of standardized procedures and techniques. A researcher is only important in the sense that he or she must apply the method correctly. Empiricism is usually related to the natural sciences and is also called scientific method. The concepts of objectivity and measurement are highly valued. Behaviorism concentrates on the experimental analysis of human behavior. To a great degree this method still underlies the analysis of communication problems as executed within the framework of positivistic approaches Functionalism is usually associated with the sociology of Emile Durkheim (1858-1917) and Talcott Parsons (1902-1979). It concentrates on repetitive observable phenomena or observable indicators of phenomena. Positivism and mass communication. In positivistic research the emphasis is mainly on the efficient working and management of the media, efficient production of media content, functions of the media, media’s effect on people and society. Weaknesses of positivistic approach The weaknesses originated from the work of German sociologist Max Weber 91864-1920) he drew his work from Wilhelm Dilthey (1833-1911) who emphasized the difference between the natural and social sciences. Dilthey maintained that as social researcher would only gain insight into the social world by not distancing himself or herself from it claiming to objective. Human action is not just observable response to stimuli but it is based on interpretation and understanding. Although positivistic research may claim that its findings are objective because of its use of scientific methods, human behavior itself is scientific and based on values intentions, interpretations, understandings, meanings and contents which may differ from person to person group to group and circumstance to circumstance. Critical approach. The development of critical thinking on mass communication has a long history. Critical thinking about mass communication started with what is called mass society theory. Mass society theory was formulated at the turn of 19th century and continued through the middle of 20th century. Began as a reaction to technological innovation that in turn gave rise to industrialization and urbanization. Assumptions Media has the power to influence the minds of average people. Media has corrupt minds. Media can initiate social chaos. Critical theory today Critical theorists today are primarily concerned about medias ideological manipulation of the masses and capitalistic use and misuse of the media by owners to foster capitalized values. We have to describe as closely as possible the ideological instrument of society. These are instruments such as church, the economy, military and media. These instruments are responsible for production, circulation and distribution of ideology. The concept of ideology is therefore the center of the critical approach. Assumptions Media are symbolic forms of expressions for example literature,theatre ,paintings, and many more. Assumes that the media and its different forms and genres like editorial comments can be read as texts. There is a relationship between production conventions and ideologies. There is a close relationship between media politics and the economy. Political economy is an umbrella for all those theories and analytical approaches which seek to understand how economic and political relationships, interests and affiliations determine the nature and functioning of social institutions and the impact or lack of impact of these relationships on social transformation and development. Public sphere. A German philosopher Jurgen Habermas (1979) argues that the modern market oriented media undermine the idea of public sphere as a place for debate where consensus can be reached on the basis of which rational actions can be taken. Criticisms of critical theory. It does not acknowledge the libertarian, informative, educational and democratizing role of media. Does not acknowledge the entertainment value of media for billions of people. Production theory has its foundation in the phenomenology and symbolic interactionism. Phenomenology is a point of departure in the social sciences from the work of the Austrian philosopher Alfred Schutz (1899-1959) Assumptions Reality is not given, but it is a structure of meanings constituted by human beings. The shared world is a pre structured word experienced inter subjectively. Symbolic internationalism centers on the process whereby meaning is socially constructed. Assumptions Reality is not given but created by human beings by virtue of their capacity to give meaning to their experiences. Meaning is embodied in symbols. On both phenomenology and symbolic interactionism emphasis is on meaning and how meaning is constructed. Semiotics is the study of signs and codes. How signs and codes convey meaning. The aim is to sharpen our critical awareness on the ways in which media use signs and codes to reflect represent and imitate aspects of reality with the purpose of conveying a message. Technological determinism This focuses on the technology of mass communication and how such technology determines the nature of mass communication and its role in society and the lives of people. Its aim is that a single cause determines all other aspects of life. Like economic determinism and biological determinism. Criticism against technological determinism. Lacks empirical support, its based on experimental research Does not acknowledge other research Information society approach concerns the role of the new media, information and communication technology in society. Its three broad enquiries are definition, characterization and description of new media, impact of Information communication on society, and policy related to new media. Post structuralist approach. s characterized by new social, economic, technological, global and cultural dynamics. Post modernity society’s structuralism emphasizes on the relationship between assign and its meaning and the role of the producer or author of texts to encode a specific meaning into texts. Post-colonial theory and Afrocentric approach seeks to situate and understand phenomena within the context of the larger and unequal g eo political histories of global and cultural power. Normative theory concerns the perceived and ideal roles of the media which are to play in a society or ought to operate if certain social values are to be observed or attained.

What did you learn about yourself from the Discovery Wheel and Develop Essay

What did you learn about yourself from the Discovery Wheel and Develop Your Multiple Intelligences exercises in the text How might you use this information in your Learning Team - Essay Example In terms of Developing Multiple Intelligences, I found the possible characteristics pertaining to types of intelligence that focus on writing letters, making careful plans, enjoying books, working with one’s hands, singing, using journals, taking leadership positions as being manifested. The learning strategies that I realized that are associated with these characteristics are: writing notes, analyzing tasks, drawing or visualizing alleviating wandering, engaging in hands-on activities, playing music during breaks, keeping journals and sharing topics learned as prominent. All these information would enhance one’s learning in terms of identifying areas where one’s strengths could be capitalized and addressing the identified weaknesses to improve on skills that would ensure the achievement of both personal and professional goals. One discovered that through using skills in notes taking, academic performance could be improved as one would apply this skill in improving reading and in evaluating which financial aspects could be developed. The multiple intelligence exercises assisted in determining which possible career paths are closely linked to one’s characteristics and strategies. This would guide me in streamlining potential employment opportunities and in focusing on the most

Hamas Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hamas - Essay Example However, when the United Nations was founded in 24 October 1945, the territory has been being administered by the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island under a mandate from the League of Nations in 1922 (United Nations 1). The League of Nations was the predecessor of the United Nations. The area of Palestine under the British was 27,000 square kilometers (â€Å"The geography of Palestine†). In the early 20th century, Israel did not exist. Mass immigrations initiated by the Basle Conference in 1897 and Zionist invasions led to the creation of Israel. The United Nations immediately after World War 2, on Jewish lobby, was concerned for the creation of a Jewish home in Palestine (United Nations 1). However, the position of the Arab nations at that time was for the separation of the issue of an Israel state and the issue of refugees from Israel. With the creation of a Jewish state immediately after World War II, however, Arabs lobbied for the establishment of an independent Palestine west of the Jordan River (United Nations 5). Unfortunately, there was no consensus on this in the United Nations although a United Nations committee recommended that Palestine be subdivided in three units: an Arab and Jewish states as well as a special status for Jerusalem---all three units under the United Nations (5). In 1947, United Nation Resolution 188(II) divided Palestine into 8 parts: t hree of the eight parts were allotted to Arab countries, three parts were allotted to a future Jewish state, one part (Town of Jaffa) was to form an Arab enclave within the Jewish territory, and the eighth part or Jerusalem was to be administered by the United Nations (United Nations 3). Zionists (through the Jewish Agency that lobbied for the creation of a Jewish state) accepted the resolution but the plan was rejected by Palestinian Arabs and the Arab states on the ground that the resolution violated the provisions of the

Family communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Family communication - Essay Example The belief system allows resilient families to make meaning of any challenge or crisis that they are currently facing while maintaining a positive outlook at the same time. Organization allows resilient families to remain flexible and stay connected. Finally, family communication allows resilient families to openly share their views, express their emotions and solve problems jointly. Thus, family resilience could be said to be the process through which a family copes with challenges as one functional unit. By having open communication avenues, a family would be able to identify their problems and challenges (Simon, Murphy, & Smith 224). At the same time, avid communication would allow the family to openly hold discussions on what these issues are all about as well as means through which the challenges could be averted. Communication within the family greatly enhances resilience by allowing the family members to engage in emotional expressions of views, open and clear communication. These aspects of communication within the family promote family resilience by bringing forth collaborative problem solving mechanisms that allow for conflicts to be solved and managed within the family unit (Simon, Murphy, & Smith 231). After all, communication is a two way traffic that heads to one single

Porter Novelli or Southern Company Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Porter Novelli or Southern Company - Case Study Example This essay demonstrates that the CTO felt this was fundamentally appropriate for specific and full performance definition roles. Performance management and selection applications would be built on the foundation of work results definitions (Goldsmith and Carter, 2010). Drotter requires the same explicit definitions of management and leadership results by level as financial and customer results, making these accountabilities far more specific, examinable, and therefore, understandable to employees. The down - to - earth, application - based approach demystifies leaders and supports the introduction of basic designs to explain both activities. Corporate leaders have traditionally relinquished talent strategy to market forces or left it to their human resources departments to oversee (Aguirre et al 2010). Any company that aspires to maintain competitiveness in the world must use strategic implementation methods on talent (Aguirre, Hewlett & Post 2010). In return, regarding their appropr iate reward, leaders are presented with many expectations. They are required to be strategic thinkers, joining dynamic vision to the chutzpah in order to produce significant change. They also need to be on the sensitive side, on look to the intricacies of political arguments, and able to persuade egos, soothe workers and court widely known acclaim in the media. It is a demanding order and one vexes the thoughts of many as it orients how effective to portray the concept of Porter Novelli without irrelevancy.

Human Rights and Oil Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

Human Rights and Oil Companies - Essay Example It also examines prominent cases under the Alien Tort Statute of 1789. The paper goes on to view some codes of best practice in relation to the operations of American multinationals and petroleum companies overseas in relation to human rights. The paper concludes with the writer's opinions and findings about the subject. Human Rights â€Å"Human rights create entitlements and are fundamentally different from rights established solely as state obligations that cannot be claimed by the beneficiaries† (Kalin & Kunzli 32). This implies that human rights refer to some inherent rights that people must be granted irrespective of their status and situation. In other words, human rights are not conditional. In includes the right that any human being must be granted in any situation or condition. Although beneficiaries of human rights are individuals, they are sometimes asserted by minorities in various collective forms (Kalin & Kunzli 32). In other words, people can come together a gro up to demand their human rights in a collective manner. This can be done through group actions like protests on the street or universal adult suffrage elections like a referendum or plebiscite to choose a given option. Human rights are constitutive and not regulative (Milne 103). This is in line with John Locke's view on natural right which requires people to be granted certain rights without having to work for it (Donelly 18). These rights are based on moral vision. This should generally include natural justice wich involves the right to life and the right to fair trial and justice on the part of all human beings. No one must decide whether to grant those rights or not. They are inherent and there are no conditions or exceptions that can be attached to such rules. In a nation, there are three main conceptions that ensure that human rights are entrenched and observed throughout the nation (Milne 104). First of all, human rights are guaranteed where there is the rule of law. In other words, human rights can be guaranteed if there is a constitution and the constitution guarantees some inherent and inalienable rights of people in a given society. Secondly, the supremacy of human rights laws must be guaranteed. And thirdly, there should be equality before the law in the interpretation of human rights law. Due to the supremacy and entrenched nature of human rights, all groups and units within a given nation must honor these laws. This therefore means that businesses in every nation, whether they are international or local, should honor human rights laws. Human rights laws are internationally guaranteed (Kalin & Kunzli 32). This therefore means that there is an international framework within which human rights can be discharged. Laws that Protect Humans Rights In every nation, the constitution and fundamental rights must ensure that basic human rights are protected. The Parliament of every nation must make laws that are sensitive to human rights (Campbell & Goldswor th 259). This therefore means that there should be an entrenched and established universal system that must respect and honor the basic rights of all citizens. The parliament or law making body of every nation should be sensitive to fundamental human rights in the making of laws. Also, in interpreting the law in relation to specific cases, the Judiciary must guarantee the human rights of individuals. Where this is in

HUMAN AGENCY AND COMMUNITY IN A GLOBALIZING WORLD Essay

HUMAN AGENCY AND COMMUNITY IN A GLOBALIZING WORLD - Essay Example Social norms and practices can be greatly affected by the changing global perspective, but the predominant power of an individual can possibly overcome this kind of situation. The complex play of both human agency and social modifications complicates the whole process of world change. Though individual efforts by acting for and against them are recognizable, equally, certain foundations of human societies can remain influential and powerful. The comprehensive ideas springing from the complex process of change can modify existing notions of human individuals about their society (see Engestrom et. al). The concept of gender for instance is affected by numerous factors existing in the social world. Today, discourses about certain social issues particularly gender (Foucault 18) are being motivated by the changing political mindsets of the people. In the literary world, texts and other creative narratives explicating new issues are being published and enjoyed by many readers. In the works of Dai Sijie and Ha Jin for instance, we can see how the clashes of social and individual ideas through discourse are outlined in the contemporary literature. In this paper, a discussion on the aspects of human agency and social development facing the challenges of globalization will be explored by focusing on the related reflection of Dai Sijie’s and Ha Jin’s stories. ... In the title story of Ha Jin’s book, an example of a man being arrested because of the ‘crimes’ of homosexuality is very intriguing as the seemingly ‘undesired’ act was committed by a married man (Ha 3-17). In this event, sudden mind-changing encounter deliberates questions on the brewed conviction of the people (in the story and the readers) as issues about homosexuality are brought about. People will now examine homosexuality as something not contained in certain ‘stereotyped’ individuals. In here, we see how Ha Jin’s book becomes a discourse of gender issues. Consequently, we can see in the story several factors affecting the characters and the readers’ mood. Social influences as norms about the said issue are being modified in contrast with the struggling function of the individuals involved. Gender as a social concept, as well as other issues like morality, fidelity and the like, is being analyzed by human agency as rep resented by the characters in the story. In Dai Sijie’s Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress, a representative condition of a man facing the complex clashing of new ideas and the old ones in a setting that can be attributed to globalization is illustrated. The personas in the story are engulfed by a situation where their powers as human individuals are spirited in order to overcome the difficulties in their lives and ultimately, find happiness. The cultural revolution evident in the story can be seen as one of the steps people and the society can have in order to adapt to the continuously changing world. The way characters in the story acted upon particular situations and the way the narrator weighs things in his reflective lines represents the

Adventure Tourism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Adventure Tourism - Essay Example In this context, tourism offered by the state is really important for people of ‘weak’ financial status, whereas tourism products that are designed specifically for people with a strong financial background, can be just a part of daily life without a significant value for the people involved (in terms of expectancy). However, in terms of pleasure tourism products are welcomed by people of all social levels around the world. It has to be noticed that tourism has been developed a lot especially the last decade where a series of tourism products have appeared and are offered to the public (or to a more limited part of the population). Under these terms, the adventure tourism products have expanded internationally and keep on gaining the preference of people in the global community. The types of these products are many, however because they have common characteristics they can all be evaluated simultaneously with just slight differentiations referring mostly to their ‘ structure’ and the facilities used for their ‘realization’. The development of tourism around the world has been in accordance with the potentials of each particular geographical area (in terms of landscapes and facilities provided) as well as the preferences of tourists as they are expressed through the tourism products chosen worldwide. In this context, it has been stated by Werner (2003, 141) that ‘within the past century, international tourists have increasingly sought exotic destinations in their pursuit of relaxation, escape, and adventure; recognizing the opportunity to earn valuable foreign currency, developing countries have catered to these desires by encouraging tourism development’. The types of tourism products offered by each country are depended on a series of parameters with most important its ability to respond to the requirements set by these products from a financial and environmental aspect as already expected above. For this reason, it is hardly

Through Another Pair of Eyes Essay Example for Free

Through Another Pair of Eyes Essay The perception of life through someone else’s eyes can alter one’s appreciation toward that particular lifestyle. Culture is perceived differently depending on the type of environment in which we grow accustomed to. It can also range from the type of location in which we live in. For instance, someone living in a different state would have a different perception of the way we do things compared to their ways. In the essay â€Å"Bumping into Mr. Ravioli,† by Adam Gopnik, the view on life is seen differently when viewed in Gopnik’s perception. However, this perception of life changes when viewed in a different point of view. Gopnik’s perception of life through the eyes of his daughter leads him to understanding and experience an unfamiliar type of lifestyle in which he is not accustomed to. As he begins to recognize and experience this new type of atmosphere, Gopnik starts to appreciate the New York experience and understands the type of lifestyle that he must adapt to in order to live in New York. Viewing life through someone else’s eyes can ultimately change the perception of someone to appreciate and accept the type of lifestyle that must be accustomed to living in that particular environment. To begin with, Gopnik’s perception of life through his daughter’s eyes leads him to acknowledge the lifestyle of a person living in New York and learn to appreciate it. Gopnik begins to realize how busy the city of New York really is and how no one ever has time to play or hangout. He notices this through his daughter’s perspective of her imaginary friend, Charlie Ravioli. Charlie Ravioli is always busy and never has time to play with Olivia. Gopnik soon realizes how vigorous the lifestyle of someone living in New York involves. In addition, Gopnik contacts his sister to resolve the issue of how Olivia’s imaginary friend never has time to play with her. She replies, â€Å"I’m sure that doesn’t occur anywhere in the research literature. That sounds completely New York.† (Gopnik 155). This quote implies that people in New York are usually busy and never has time to do anything. Gopnik learns about the busy lifestyle of Charlie Ravioli and begins to understand more of how a New Yorker lives. Gopnik also realizes that the environment contributes to the personality of Olivia’s imaginary friend. Gopnik states â€Å"Why is busyness the stuff our children make their invisible friends from, as country children make theirs from light and sand?† (Gopnik 156). According to Gopnik, children base their imaginary friends from the type of environment they live in. For example, since Olivia lives in New York, Her imaginary friend, Charlie Ravioli, has the personality of a busy person living in New York. However, a child living on the countryside would create an imaginary that has a personality based off that environment. These two quotes exhibit the idea of different lifestyles based off different environments. Gopnik beings to understand the busy lifestyle of people in New York and understands why Charlie Ravioli never has time to play with Olivia. He learns to appreciate this type of lifestyle and will eventually grow accustomed to it especially living in such a busy city. Gopnik also learns to understand more about his lifestyle and that in order to adjust to the busy lifestyle, he has to get involved with the routine. Furthermore, Gopnik perception of life allowed him to learn about the advances of technology and communications that has evolved overtime. Gopnik never experienced these types of technology when he was younger. Nevertheless, Looking at life in his own perspective, he distinguishes the different types of technological developments such as the train and communication devices. Gopnik asserts, â€Å"If the train crowded our streets, the telegram crowded our minds. It introduced something into the world, which remains with us today: a whole new class of communications that are defined as incomplete in advance of their delivery.† (Gopnik 157). This quote implies that the creation of trains and communication devices has lead to the foundation of the busy lives of many people. For instance, people crowded the streets in order to get from one place to another using the train. This made the streets of New York even more crowded. Likewise, the communication devices influenced people to c ontact by phone, which then frequently leads to requesting for email, and ultimately requesting for fax. Although the trains and communication devices created more hassle for many people, it also made it more convenient for some New York people, allowing them to conserve more time by contacting by phone and using the train to get from one destination to another much quicker. Gopnik’s perception of these technologies allows him to realize how busy some people are in New York and do not have time to consume these technologies. In addition, the busy streets of New York limits the amount of technology inhabited in New York. Gopnik claims, â€Å"New York, though, almost uniquely, got hit by a double dose of the first two technologies, and a very limited dose of the second two. Car life-car obsessions, car-defined habits-is more absent here than almost anywhere else in the country, while television, though obviously present, is less fatally prevalent here.† (Gopnik 158). Technology is widespread in many parts of New York, however, is very limited due to the busy lifestyles of many New York people. Cars, in particular, are rarely drove around in New York because of the busy streets and heavy traffic caused by many taxis and buses. Gopnik’s experience of New York allows him to witness the advances in technology and observe the busy streets of New York. This type of life requires more walking, which creates a populated street, in order to deal with the intense traffic.

Mahindra and Mahindra: External Environment Analysis

Mahindra and Mahindra: External Environment Analysis A business cannot function in a shell. In order to exist and function effectively, a business has to act and react to what happens in the external environment. The aggregates of all conditions, events, and influences that surround and affect it says Keith Davis (Saleem Shaikh, Business Environment, 2010) The external environment of a business refers to all those factor that directly influence the working of a business. These factors are not in control of businesses, but it is extremely important for a business because they shape the kind of business activity one can have. The factors which influence the external environment of a business are: Political factors This means how the changes in the government policies, political systems and the approach and philosophy of the political party in existence influences the working of a business enterprise. Economic factors This means how a business is affected by the economy in terms of government spending, interest rates, taxation, exchange rates, global economic factors, infrastructure development, capital formation, etc. Social factors Every business organization operates in according to the norms of the society and to satisfy their needs. This means how the culture, values, beliefs, tastes, preferences and behavior of the consumers, households and communities affects the working of a business. Technological factors Technology is considered to be one of the most important factors which affect the business environment. It means how the rapid change and innovation in technologies affect the production process and help businesses to produce innovative products. Ecological factors Ecology is the study of environment which includes plants, animals, water, air, sunlight etc. These factors affect the working of a business organization considerably in a way that government has taken some legislative measures for the protection and control of pollution in the environment like The Water Act, 1974, The Air Act, 1981, The Environment Protection Act, 1986. Legal factors The legal environment plays a very important role in business. Every aspect of business is regulated by the law of the country. These include the laws related to industrial licensing, factory administration, payment of wages, company laws, import and export laws etc. In order to stay and survive successfully in the market for long term a business has to take in consideration all the above mentioned factors and change accordingly. These factors have affected the performance and long term sustainability of Mahindra and Mahindra to a large extent. Mahindra and Mahindra Mahindra Mahindra Limited is part of  Mahindra Group which is based in  Mumbai. The company was started in 1945 in  Ludhiana  as Mahindra Mohammed by the brothers K.C. Mahindra and J.C. Mahindra along with  Malik Ghulam Mohammed.It was changed to Mahindra Mahindra in 1948 and is currently headed by Anand Mahindra. It is now a US $7.1 billion Indian multinational. Mahindra is the only Indian company which manufactures top tractor brands in the world. Today it has its presence in almost every segment of the automobile industry, from two-wheelers to SUVS, CVS and UVS. Recently Mahindra acquired a majority stake in REVA Electric Car Co Ltd. (now called Mahindra REVA). The Mahindra Group expanded its IT portfolio when Tech Mahindra acquired the leading global business and information technology services company, Satyam Computer Services. The company is now known as Mahindra Satyam. Mahindra Mahindra has diversified its businesses into various sectors which are: Automotive sector Two wheeler sector Farm equipment sector Hospitality sector Information technology sector Factors influencing Mahindra and Mahindra in its various business sectors (P)olitical factors Automotive, Two wheeler and farm equipment sectors In 2002, the government of India formulated an auto policy that aimed at promoting integrated, enduring and self-sustained growth of the Indian automotive industry. The approval for foreign equity investment up to 100% in the automotive sector was allowed and minimum investment criteria disallowed. The government promoted establishments of international companies for manufacturing small, affordable passenger cars as well as tractor and two wheelers. The government assisted the development of vehicle propelled by alternate energy source. The government formulated plans to have a terminal life policy for Commercial Vehicles along with incentives for replacement for such vehicles. It also promoted multi-model transportation and the implementation of mass rapid transportation system. These political influences have lead Mahindra and Mahindra to increase production of its vehicles and inflow of foreign investments. Also the development of alternate energy source vehicles has led Mahindra to acquire majority stake in REVA electric car co ltd. Hospitality sector It includes the central governments legal issues and regulations. This includes various Laws and Acts passed out by the government in Hospitality sector some of which are as follows: The influences of these political acts has led to the commencement of Mahindra holidays and resorts limited in 1996, offering family holidays in India and abroad. This has helped the company to grow immensely. Information technology sector The IT industry of India suffered political instability for a few years but it has been stable since 1999. The Indian government has decided to contract IT job to Indian IT companies creating more opportunities for the company and the industry at large. Consumer protection laws, competitive regulations and terrorist attacks are other factors to be considered. The Indian it sector does not much influence of political stability, so if the government changes it has little effect on the industry. These political forces have led Tech Mahindra in the leaders category with a hugely successful public issue in 2006. Changes in the political conditions have allowed many companies to enter IT sector like Mahindra Mahindra. This has lead to establishment of tech Mahindra by the Mahindra group and acquisition of Satyam. (E)conomical factors Automotive, two wheeler and farm equipment sector The automobile companies are reorganizing their sales process due to economic pressure on the industry. The government has granted concessions, by reducing the interest rates for export financing. The growth of Indian economy at the rate of 8.5% per annum has had a great influence on the automotive sector in India. Also the growth in the manufacturing sector at the rate of 8-10 % per annum in the last few years has influenced the growth of this sector. The globalization of India economy has led to the participation of several Indian firms with global players.  While some have formed joint ventures with equity participation, other also has entered into technology tie-ups. These changes have allowed Mahindra to expand its market and grow rapidly in India as well as abroad. Hospitality sector The economic factors have a direct influence on the hospitality sector of a business this is because if there is inflation then the rates will rise quickly, keeping in mind there are two sides to it. The hospitality sector is directly linked with tourism industry. Tourism has become the number one export earner for India and this is only possible due to diversification of the economy. The economic growth of the country has led to the expansion of Mahindra into this sector by establishment of Mahindra holidays and resorts. Information technology sector The IT industry is being affected by lots of economic factors ranging from rising working pay, global recession, competition, contract availability and fee. In 2009 the domestic IT spending grew by 20 % and reached $20 billion. During the last global recession currency fluctuation caused devaluation of dollar which has affected the industry. The recession has also led to decline in jobs which has affected this sector. With the decline of banking and financial sectors, the revenue from them is expected to decline hurting the IT industry which has had its impact on tech Mahindra as well. (S)ocial factors Automotive, two wheeler and farm equipment sector The changed lifestyle of people has led to increased purchase of automobiles, so automobile sector have a large customer base to serve. The increase in the income level of consumer as increased the buying power of people. In India, today 85% of cars are financed in India. Indian customers are highly educated and well informed. They are price sensitive as well and put lot of importance on value for money .Preference for small and compact cars in the Indian market has also increased. They are socially acceptable even amongst the well off. People these days prefer fuel efficient cars with low running costs which Mahindra has ventured into like Mahindra Renault, Scorpio, Xylo etc. Hospitality sector This includes all the social and cultural trends which have been affecting the industry. The changing expectation of consumers towards the hospitality experience. The consumers expect to be catered for their hospitality needs. The consumers want to feel that they are in control of their hospitality experience. Social networking plays an important part in the growth of this sector for a firm which helps the companies the companies to relate in a better way with the consumers. The increase in wealth of consumes due to increase in their income has led to change in their taste towards luxurious living and travelling which creates more business for firms operating n this sector due to which Mahindra has grown. Information technology There are lots of social factors affecting the IT sector which ranges from language barriers, employee rights and race rationality of the company and other issues. The IT industry is also affected by the change in consumer behavior which is supported by the fact that different consumers have different taste. The social issues like global warming are also concern for this industry and the shift of society towards education which includes opening up of universities and institutes in India offering IT education which produces large number of students joining IT industry which is also benefiting Mahindra and Mahindra. (T)echnological factors Automotive, two wheeler and farm equipment sector There are more emphasis laid on research and development in terms of technology in this sector which has contributed to innovation. The government of India is also promoting National Automotive testing and research and development infrastructure project. Technological solution helps in integrating the supply chain, hence reduce losses and increase profitability. With the development and evolution of alternate fuels, hybrid cars have made entry into the market also global companies like Audi, BMW, Hyundai have setup their manufacturing units in India. Mahindra and Mahindra is providing customized solutions and designer cars with new technology Hospitality sector Advancing technology has contributed a lot for the growth of firms in hospitality sector due to which the hotel receive reservations in advance through the net. People get all the information about the hotels through agents online. With the advent of computer the airlines allow the travel agents to view their flight inventories and rates in real time. Soon the airlines also added hotels and car rental companies to their computes so that agents could book the entire guest travel through their computer. Today more than 70% of hotel reservations are done electronically from which Mahindra and Mahindra has taken advantage. Information technology The changes in technological sector have impacted the growth and development of various companies. It has also forced other companies whose core business is not in IT sector to venture in this sector for example Mahindra and Tata. The present conditions are mainly due to the result that the masses have become techno savvy and there is a lot of potential in this sector. (L)egal factors Automotive sector The legal angle to the automotive sector has undergone a sea change during the last 50 years and Mahindra and Mahindra has been able to cope up with the same. As more and more stricter norms regarding environmental pollution has come into effect so Mahindra and Mahindra has brought new technology into their products to address to the legal applications and this constant endeavor of the Mahindra group has enabled it to constantly abide by the laws and rules and regulations of India and the worlds over. Hospitality sector The rules and regulations regarding the hospitality industry have also changed and as a result Mahindra and Mahindra have to adjust themselves according to the same and they have tried to adjust to the same also Information technology Sector Government of India has opened up the IT sector in India and has made the laws very lenient so that the business community can benefit from the same. This has led the Mahindra and Mahindra to launch Tech Mahindra as their Brand and acquisition of Satyam co (E)cological factors Automotive sector, two wheeler and farm equipment sector The physical infrastructure of country such as bridges and roads affect the use of automobiles. If there are smooth roads available then it will affect the use of automobiles. The environment and weather conditions also affect the use of automobiles in the country. If the environment is pleasant then the use of automobiles will be more. The entry of global companies in the Indian environment has led to advancement in the products and the production process of Mahindra and Mahindra. Hospitality sector The environmental factors gained prominence because of deteriorating environmental balance which is threatening the sustainability of environment and nature. Hospitality sector is very much responsible for releasing out chemical effluence drained out in water making it unfit for use and also the draining out non bio degradable recourses such as polythene in the environment affecting the chain adversely. There has been many rules and act passed for this sector which the companies have to work accordingly. This industry is directly influenced by tourism. The natural and cultural sites led to attraction of tourists and also the natural landforms and environmental conditions influence the choice of destination of Mahindra hotels which has led to its growth. Information technology sector The ecological environment has affects and influence in IT sector in various ways. For this there have been conservation and protection issues because of deteriorating environmental balance. Largely, businesses are also held responsible for such situations as emissions from these industries pollute water, air and effect bio chain adversely and expose people to hazardous radiations bringing their lives in danger. These have implications for various firms in this sector and how the manufacturing process takes place in Tech Mahindra. Conclusion: Mahindra and Mahindra has grown steadily in size and structure and has evolved into a huge group and occupies a premium position in various key sectors of the economy. It has gained a substantial and a sustainable growth in the industry by coping up with various changes in the environment it exists in. The above mentioned factors has impacted its various business sectors and led to the formation of a highly successful company. The above analysis leads us to the conclusion that Mahindra and Mahindra have transformed themselves into a very successful business enterprise and have evolved themselves as a very important constituent of the Indian and the global economy. Mahindra and Mahindra have expanded themselves into various industrial sectors like defence, automobile, hospitality etc. and have diversified at the same time. Mahindra and Mahindra has shown that how the various changes in the business environment can be explored and exploited by any business for its own gain and the gain of the economy as a whole.

Pablo Ruiz Picasso Essays -- Art History Artisits

Pablo Ruiz Picasso Pablo Picasso was born in Malaga in 1881. Pablo was the son of a respected art teacher, and due to his father’s influence, young Pablo entered the Academy at Barcelona at age 14. This was where he painted his first great work, â€Å"Girl with Bare Feet†. After two years of schooling, Picasso transferred for even for advanced tutelage. This did not hold Picasso’s interest, so instead he spent much of his time in cafes and in brothels. Three years later, Picasso won a gold medal for his work, â€Å"Customs of Aragon†. This work was displayed on exhibit in Picasso’s home town. In 1901, Picasso set up a studio in the northern section of Paris known as Montmartre. Picasso had mastered traditional forms of art by now. However, he was affected by the works of such artists as Toulouse-Lautrec, Degas, Vuillard which can be noticed in his works at the time. â€Å"Longchamp† and â€Å"The Blue Room† are good examples of this change in Picasso’s style. Soon after this, Picasso began to develop his own methods. Illness struck Picasso in 1898 and he temporarily retired from the city and rested in the country. Upon his return, Picasso was distressed with modern art and proceeded to use mother’s maiden name. Picasso underwent an distressing part of his life for the next 4 years (1901-1904) and demonstrated the life of the poor. The next two years following those last four were rather bright and vigorous. Perhaps this was because he realized how his life differe...

Joshua And The Children :: essays research papers

Joshua and the Children There were a lot of reasons Joseph Girzone titled his book "Joshua and the Children". I think the main reason for the title was because of Joshua’s purpose in the town. The author explains how Joshua is there to fulfill "his Father’s" promise. Joshua wants to teach all the children of the town to get along and be at peace with each other. Joshua says it is too late for the adults to learn the way, who have lived hateful lives. Joshua must turn to the children if he wishes to change the future. He believes that if he teaches the children to not hate, and to respect others, regardless of racial or ethnic differences, then the world will improve when they become adults. This new generation will then bring happiness to the world. Joshua knows that these children were victims of their parents’ wrongdoings. He knows that they were born into a society filled with hate. Hate for members of a different race. Hate without reasoning. He fee ls it is wrong what the adults are doing to the children. They are being brought up to believe that it is OK to mistreat somebody who is "different" from you. This is why Joshua felt he should teach the children, and not the adults. Once Joshua started to communicate with the children, and got to know them better the adults were amazed at how Joshua related to the children so well. He knew their names right from the second he met them, he played their games, and he even let himself lose at them too. Eventually the adults in the town began to realize that whoever this Joshua really was, he was a role model for each and every one of them. The Muslim boy was a very important character in this book. He and one his friends went down to the square where Joshua met with the children every day. His friend told Joshua that the boy was blind. Everybody in the square watched in disbelief as Joshua cured the boy’s blindness with the touch of his hand. The boy’s family were the weapons distributors. After seeing that Joshua was able to fix their boy, they too became good people and thus, making the town a better place. The final event in the story that showed peace was achieved was a soccer game with the Catholics playing against the Protestants.

Rights :: essays research papers

One would think that the story of Matthew Shepard would bring people together over a tragic event. On the contrary, Matthew Shepard’s death seemed to pull the nation apart, due to people’s conflicting points of view. Should Matthew’s heartbreaking death be seen as any other killing, or should everyone take it upon himself or herself to be responsible for what happened to Matthew?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When reading the article â€Å"Blood on our Hands†, I believe that the writer had a strong position about his argument. Phil Martin states that everyone should take responsibility for Matthew’s death because people everywhere reject the unfamiliar and label others without thinking about the consequences of their actions. I believe that he is correct that we in the United States do not take the time to understand people who are different than we are. Being in a minority group as a young Jewish woman, I can empathize with the writer when he talks about being angry with self-sanctimonious religious leaders. When religious officials speak out about gays, Jews, Muslims or any other minority they need to realize that people may take their words and apply them. How can anyone be shocked about the death of a gay man, when it is being taught that gay people are not deserving of God?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Nobody’s cause is more important than anyone else’s. Everyone should educate themselves about the differences we face in America. Understanding is the key component to making change happen. If gay activists stood for the equality of women, and if women activists would stand for the equality of African Americans, then everyone would stand for something. They would stand for the equality of all Americans in this country.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The problem with this theory of mine is that people automatically put the blame on others and points the finger the other way. In â€Å"Matthew Shepard: What is the Big Deal?† Colby Carter uses personal attacks at gays to bolster his opinion. He states that protestors at a Gay March in New York waved signs reading, â€Å"Where is your rage?† in response to the death of Matthew. I think the writer takes the word rage out of context because he insists that gay protestors were using violence to solve the problem. I see people waving signs that display the same message outside of abortion clinics. Anyone can be angry about something they believe in strongly without having someone jumping to the conclusion that they are violent.

Thomas Gordon’s Concept of “Twelve Roadblocks to Effective Communication”

The objective of communication is to obtain a close rapport between interlocutors. If the goal is reached, it is easier to tackle with the encountered problem. This is the way how Thomas Gordon, the author of the bestseller â€Å"Parent Effectiveness Training† (1970, New York), perceives the role of good listening. In order to focus readers’ attention on fundamental mistakes people make, he listed twelve common types of ineffective responses.These are so called â€Å"Twelve Roadblocks to Effective Communication† or, playfully, â€Å" The Dirty Dozen†. Gordon claims that they act as communication barriers because they interrupt the process of solving the problem, whereas our verbal support should be limited to directing partner’s thoughts until the partner comes up with the solution. What is more, instead of encouraging, these responses carry a harmful meaning which is often unintentional.On the basis of what kind of hidden message they convey, those twelve roadblocks can be divided into five groups: utterances that communicate intolerance, ones of inadequacies and faults, ones that deny there is a problem, ones solving the problem for the person and the last ones which divert the person from the problem. The first group consist of responses that tell our interlocutor that we do not accept his or her point of view. Responses like ordering, directing or commanding communicate that your partner’s needs are being ignored.Warning or threatening may cause resentment, anger, resistance and rebellion. Giving advice (â€Å"shoulds† and â€Å"oughts†), making suggestions, providing solutions produces a situation when the helper thinks he or she is superior to the other person. Additionally, responses involving persuading with logic, arguing, lecturing and moralizing, preaching, telling them their duty assure your partner of their low self-esteem and will bring counter-arguments. Judging, criticizing, disagreeing, bl aming and shaming, ridiculing, labeling, name-calling, stereotyping go together.These responses obviously make the partner feel incompetent and inadequate. In effect, there is no place for effective communication. Nevertheless, replies including Interpreting and analyzing plays the same role. A group of roadblocks that deny there is a problem comprises such responses as reassuring, sympathizing, consoling as well as agreeing, approving and praising. Making your partner feel better, instead of listening, does not have a desired effect in a helping relationship. It simply ends the struggle with the problem, for example ‘You’ve done the right thing’.Next group goes for responses that solve the problem for the partner. At first glance, there is nothing devastating in questioning and probing. However, one should ask right questions. Questions like ‘Why? ’, ‘Where? ’, ‘Who? ’, ‘When? ’ may occur too deep and messy. Wi thdrawing, distracting, humoring, changing the subject belong to the last category. Responses, such as , ‘Let’s talk about that some other time’ or ‘That reminds me of†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢, diminish the problem and make your partner feel unimportant. Therefore, there is little chance to pursued the problem. It will be postponed and never solved.

How will your personal faith and beliefs contribute to Liberty’s mission to develop Christ- centered leaders? Essay

My personal faith and beliefs will contribute to Liberty’s mission to develop Christ- centered leaders in a number of ways. I am very passionate about worship and discipleship. I see my purpose in life as a chance to change lives through worship and discipleship, and to obey the calling that God has on my life. I believe it is my duty as a child of God to be the hands and feet of Christ no matter where that may lead me. I am passionate about worship because worship is a devotion, it is my heart cry, worship is the place where I really found God and fell in love with Him. It is where I feel closest to Him, I can express myself freely to God and He understands everything my heart tries to say. Worship for me is a battle. It is praying with a tune, it is standing in the gap for someone and calling them, out of darkness, into the light. It is pouring everything you have at the altar and surrendering to the Father, it is allowing the Father to draw near and consume your very being. Worship is pure, worship is love. Discipleship is extremely important to me because I want to be someone who embraces and assists in spreading God’s teaching to others, to help empower people to know, deeply and wholeheartedly, their God given gifts; to help them know that God has created them in His image that He has a plan for their life. I will combine with Liberty’s mission and my personal faith and beliefs to contribute a well thought out plan to enable each student to reach their goal in serving Christ and worshipping. My mission is the same as Liberty’s mission to help develop christ- centered leaders, through my worship, discipleship, and the full armor of God.

Bob Dylan: An Influence for a Generation

â€Å"A person is a success if they get up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between dose what he wants to do† –words spoken by the singer/songwriter Bob Dylan. Being a man of success himself, yet a very humble and simple man, changed the way people view musical quality. Dylan was awarded with the number one song in the twentieth century with those lyrics from his masterpiece Like a Rolling Stone, by Rolling Stone Magazine. His poetic words were heard all across the world, inspiring all who heard his voice. Telling tales of political and civil injustice, Dylan’s words brought normal everyday life a new sense of hope through tough times in a person’s life. Discussed will be the early era of Dylan from his unique musical talents during his childhood which drove him to his writing pieces, himself as an inspirational and motivated leader of the 1960’s and how his powerful music makes him one of the most influential musicians of all time. In the beginning, Bob Dylan was born Robert Allan Zimmerman on May 24th, 1941 in Duluth Minnesota (Heatly, 126). Dylan was raised in a middle-class family to his parents Abraham and Beatrice Zimmerman (Martin). His father owned Zimmerman Furniture & Appliance Company in the small town of Duluth, but the family was forced to move to the nearby town of Hibbing after he lost the business due to him becoming ill with polio in 1946 (Kooper). Dylan was raised in Hibbing, Minnesota from the age of seven and lived there for most of his childhood (Heatly, 126). Raised in a small town, Dylan was musically inclined and had a great significance in music at an incredibly young age which brought him to learn many various instruments at the same time. He took piano lessons when first moving to Hibbing, but became impatient with the teacher so decided to quit lessons and began to teach himself how to play piano, guitar and harmonica; without surprisingly knowing how to read music (Martin). With his yearning for music, Dylan was largely influenced by the late-night radio broadcasts of the country, blues and rock-and-roll, during his mid-teens (Heatly, 126). Some of his favorites were the blues musicians, which included Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and Jimmy Reed (Martin). Dylan’s favorite musical idol was Woody Guthrie, who was a socially-conscious singer/songwriter of â€Å"This Land is Your Land† and several other protest songs (Heatly, 126). Always knowing he wanted to be a musician, Dylan tried to play in many bands as possible during high school and throughout college as well. In 1959, just before enrolling in college, he served a brief stint playing piano for the rising pop star, Bobby Vee (Kooper). With some musical experience, Dylan participated in several high school rock bands while studying at the University of Minnesota with a high interest of American folk music (Heatly 126). While in college, Dylan discovered the bohemian section of Minneapolis know as Dinkytown (Kooper). An after Dylan explored the talent that came out of Dinkytown; Dylan was inspired to quit the University of Minnesota and became a full-time musician. Dylan traveled to the East Coast, playing at several Greenwich Village coffeehouses and was gaining rising fame (Heatly, 126). He went by the phony name of Bob Dylan, which was picked out after the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Dylan picked him because he liked many of Thomas’ poems (Kooper). During his travels between coffeehouses, Dylan was determined to meet up with musician Woody Guthrie. Guthrie, who was actually in a New Jersey hospital dying from a neurological disorder called Huntington’s Chorea. Dylan was able to speak to Guthrie, his idol, before he passed away†¦ but never explained in detail of their only and final conversation between each other (Heatly, 126). With his multiple coffeehouse performances, his career took off and still soars to this day. Bob Dylan became a common name and his skills of music and lyrics became widely known; which make you wonder what was said between him and Guthrie? Bob Dylan is a very skillful songwriter, usually expressing his ideas through his well known protest songs. His protest songs often dealt with problems caused by social and political injustice, which include â€Å"Blowin in the Wind and â€Å"The Times They Are A-Changin† (Martin). The Civil Rights Movement took very kindly to Dylan’s songs, so well that they wanted him to be a part of the cause for quality. His best known work of the 1960’s took on a musical shadow so large it shaped into a political influence. It was such a huge influence, the Civil Rights Movement adopted his song â€Å"Blowin in the wind† as their anthem for equality and peace (Ayoub). Dylan accepted his place in the Civil Rights Movement and gathered the attention of the people to the movement. Frequently performing at the Civil Rights rallies in the early 1960’s which included the March on Washington when Martin Luther King gave his â€Å"I Have a Dream† speech on August 28th 1963 (Rathbone). Dylan became a powerful voice to all the working-class people in America during the 1960’s. He had several protest songs that had political content that both reflected and influenced the concerns of a generation of younger people such as the Civil Rights movement, anti-nuclear weapons campaign and the anti-Vietnam War movement (Rathbone). Dylan was a prominent part of the radical change during the 1960’s reform and was greatly recognized for his participation such as receiving the Tom Paine Award by The National Civil Liberties Committee for his contribution and achievements (Rathbone). All throughout Bob Dylan’s musical career, he has created and molded new types of different styles of music together. His inspiration was to intimidate the music of his own music idol, Woody Guthrie. He wanted to be a socially conscious singer/composer just like Guthrie (Heatly, 126). As the times changed, Dylan became a musical chameleon. He was able to conform to the changes in the popularity in music. Dylan’s career started with folk and protest music in the early 1960’s then moved through to electrified folk-rock in the mid and late 1960’s and early 1970’s (Kamin). After the Civil Rights, most fans found Dylan’s folk music more admiring and significant than anything he had ever wrote; popularity formed by creating the raw-sounding combo of vocals, harmonica and guitar. That mixture alone has kept his music career last him forty-seven years (Rathbone). Dylan did not want to stop there; he wanted to evolve into the new generation of music. Dylan cross-pollinated folk and country music with electric rock, creating an entirely new dimension of popular music (Heatly, 126). He liked to mix sounds and experiment different styles to meet his high expectations of creativity. He created the new style called â€Å"folk-rock† mixing his original folk sound but began to play electric guitar to embrace rock-and-roll (Dylan). Some Dylan fans did not approve of his switch but happened to still remained a musical sensation with a wider audience. Dylan and his band also caused an uproar at the Newport Folk Festival in July of 1965, when they began to perform with electric instruments instead of traditional acoustic ones. After being heckled by the crowd, they left the stage after only playing three songs (Martin). Dylan kept his optimism up with his fan-base and continued to play his electric instruments. To win back his fans, â€Å"Like a Rolling Stone† was a United States hit, cementing his reputation as a lyricist but added his new sound among the electrical instruments of guitars and organs (Ayoub). His musical career had its ups and downs, but his fans rolled through his many experimented musical styles. Dylan’s voice and songwriting were still raw but were mixed with the realms of traditional folk, country, blues, rock-and-roll and gospel (Kamin). A Bob Dylan song is more than just a catchy tune to whistle to. Dylan was possibly the most influential singer/songwriters of his era (Dylan). Not only did he create a respectable musical rhythm, his lyrics were his area of expertise. He wrote very poetic and sometimes even abstract but often-philosophical lyrics of astute commentary and therapeutic introspection that spoke to masses during an era of social unrest, political upheaval and radical change (Heatly 126). Dylan had many techniques to keep his audience engaged with his poetic lyrics, by performing his allusive, poetic songs with his nasal spontaneous vocal style and electrical bond. He enlarged pop music’s range and vocabulary while creating a widely limited sound. While accomplishing all of that, he still had the ability to challenge, influence and surprise his listeners (Wenner). In his earlier lyric writings, he focused on the societal issues during his protest era. The songs were broken down into a simple folk melody combined with lyrics questioning the social and political status quo. These songs were very native and unsophisticated in their nature, catching the attention of the zeitgeist of the 1960’s (Ayoub). All of his music was interpreted differently but he reached an elevated standard of lyric writing also the role of the singer/songwriter as well (Heatly, 126). While a fine interpreter of songs, Dylan was not considered a beautiful singer. Many of his own songs when first reaching the public were sung through other artists. Dylan’s fans could get past his singing, only because they were amazed how he could write such wonderful lyrics. Dylan’s music was also more popular though other artist that covered his songs such as Joan Baez, Pete Paul & Mary, Guns n’ Roses, The Byrds and Jimi Hendrix, because adding an able singer to his wonderful lyrics made his music very popular to a wider group of fans (Ayoub). Dylan was hailed the Shakespeare of his generation, due to his intellectualism of classic literature and poetry that showed though his music; even if he was not the artist performing the song (Kooper). It was subsequently common for a band to cover Dylan’s songs in the mid-1960’s, that CBS started to promote him by saying â€Å"Nobody sings Dylan like Dylan. † Whoever sang his songs were immediately recognized as his and a good part of his fame rested not only on his lyrical excellence but on the underlying attitude of Dylan (Ayoub). Even though many artists covered his songs, Dylan had his own techniques to sing his songs. He sang in what he called the â€Å"taking blues† and story-telling format in most of his first few albums such as â€Å"The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan† and â€Å"The times They Are A-Changin† (Dylan). Dylan had many other trademarks and techniques that signified his music. One of his newer types of songs was a lengthy and impressionistic still retaining an element of social commentary but added dense metaphorical landscape like the songs â€Å"Chimes of Freedom† and â€Å"Mr. Tambourine Man. He exhibited his dry wit and inhabited by a sequence of grotesque, metaphorical character (Ayoub). Dylan’s many styles of lyrics have all contributed to his success as a musician. The music Dylan made revolutionized rock, as his lyrics were analyzed, debated, and quoted like no music before him. Dylan chewed up traditional folk and spat out literary and folk traditions still used today (Wenner). Bob Dylan was given a lot of recognition and praise for his achievements and gain throughout his musical career. There are so many musical facets he discovered and always pushed his musical talent to the limit. Not only had Dylan achieve a high musical status, but he is highly looked upon in society for his contribution for the Civil Rights movement. He gave a voice to the working-class to fight for peace and help give a reason for freedom to the minorities. Dylan’s musical talent is beyond any other, as being able to compose his own music and create a whole new genre of music for an ever-changing society of his time. Along with his musical style, his lyrical masterpieces gave his listeners a mass of different trademarks in his lyrics. Every song he has written, all the way from his first protest song to his upbeat electric songs along with his metaphorical and abstract songs, has changed the standard of a singer/songwriter. All throughout his career, Dylan has given a voice to the working people, by creating new genres of music and is the ideal singer/songwriter of the 1960’s. As the ambiguous man he was, he had more questions than answers. At the end of the day, Bob Dylan would always say â€Å"All I can do is be me, whoever that is. † He knew he was a man of radical change, but he did not know he could change the world with a piece of paper, a pencil and a guitar.