M&M’s Case Study Essay

1. Introduction and Background The major purposes of effective leadership and management consist in timely monitoring of organisational environment, development of adequate responses to environmental challenges and further strategic planning and changes[1]. Relevant leadership strategies and implications can solve numerous business challenges and help organisations to overcome diverse external as well as internal pressures and crises[2]. This strategic report is aimed at the identification of the key business challenges of M&M’s through external and internal analysis and further development of solutions and specific recommendations on how effective leadership can meet these challenges in this organisation. M&M’s is a popular confectionary brand, which belongs to Mars Incorporated. The brand’s name is an abbreviation for its creators such as Mars and Murrie. The main products of M&M’s are chocolate and peanut colourful candies with the letter ‘m’ on one side[3]. The product was firstly launched during the World War II, and the main customer of M&M’s was the US army. In 1980, the firm began its foreign market expansion[4]. Nowadays, Mars Inc., the parent company, is one of the biggest confectionery manufacturers in the world. M&M’s chocolate beans are sold in more than 70 countries around the world. The company employs more than 40,000 people all over the globe. It should be noted that M&M’s is a private firm, which started from a family business. In 2010, total revenue of the parent company, Mars, constituted $30 billion[5]. M&M’s uses flat organisation structure, which makes the company very responsive to the needs of its em ployees as well as customer. The main competitors of M&M’s are Hershey, Nestle, Cadbury and Kraft Foods[6]. M&M’s business strategy consists in maintaining high quality of the production alone with high volume and low prices. 2. Environment Monitoring Research and development (R&D) department has always been of great importance for M&M’s. It has been mentioned in the background that multi-level efficiency is one the main principles of the firm. To achieve this efficiency, the company relies on its own market research and general industry publications and analyses[7]. The company’s success formula consists in in-depth customer engagement practices, through which tastes and preferences of customers are studied and analyses. For instance, in 2002, M&M’s monitored customer environment through the internet survey method, when the target population was proposed to select a new colour if candies. As a result, purple candies were added to M&M’s production[8]. Furthermore, it should be noted that in the early 2000s, the external environment began to rapidly change. In response, M&M’s needed to develop adequate measures and strategies in order to remain competitive the market. In this case, M&M’s decided to implement the ‘launch and learn’ approach, which can be considered another successful method of monitoring the environment[9]. As a result, ‘My M&M’s’ brand was introduced to the customers. The main idea of the new brand consisted in customisation. Customers could order chocolate beans, but instead of the letter ‘m’, they could request their names or even images. In-depth market research and monitoring were also made after the launch of the new sub-brand. The new product turned out to be successful and appreciated by customers. In addition, it should be noted that M&M’s uses the benchmarking method when new marketing strategies are tested in smaller focus groups[10]. 3. External and Internal Analysis In order to understand external environment of a company, the PESTEL framework is frequently implemented. It should be noted that PESTEL is an acronym, which stands for political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal environmental factors[11]. Political †¢ M&M’s sells its chocolate beans in more than 70 countries all over the world[12]. If the government of a country is unstable, it can negatively affect the firm and its sales. For instance, quotas on imports and other restrictions may be introduced. In these conditions, M&M’s will be able to bring only a specific amount of chocolate beans to the local market. The main examples of such countries are Serbia, Thailand, China, etc.[13]. †¢ The main M&M’s markets of presence are the US and the UK, which are characterised by low political risks[14]. Economic †¢ The global economic crisis has negatively affected customers’ buying capacity. However, it should be mentioned, that chocolate beans are a fast-moving consumer good. Thus, it can be sold quickly even during economically pressing times and at low prices unlike cars and electronics, which are durable and high-priced commodities[15]. †¢ As a multinational company, M&M’s opens new factories in different countries. The company hires employees and helps to decrease unemployment in developing economies such as Brazil, Kazakhstan, Mexico, etc. In turn, M&M’s also suffers from unemployment and other macroeconomic conditions in these economies. †¢ The market has reached maturity yet, neither in the US, nor in other countries[16]. Social †¢ The company produces chocolate beans, which are demanded by wide categories of buyers, from kids to adults. †¢ The company’s products are very popular with special events such as weddings and birthdays. †¢ The public is worried about the quality standards used in the company[17]. Technological †¢ Contemporary marketing strategies require from M&M’s using online sales and online customer involvement. Customer engagement marketing methods are also required where the internet serves as the playground[18]. Environmental factors †¢ Chocolate beans production cannot be classified as highly damaging to the environment and employees’ health. †¢ However, M&M’s depends on the production of cocoa beans and weather conditions in which they are cultivated. Such input material as cocoa beans are unlikely to run out[19]. Legal factors †¢ M&M’s has to follow the regulations of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Food Drug Administration (FDA) on the chocolate candies production[20]. †¢ M&M’s has to follow the legislation in all countries where it operates. †¢ M&M’s has to protect its employees’ rights and freedoms. The next step of environmental scanning is SWOT analysis. This analytical framework will help to identify the company’s internal, including strengths (S), weaknesses (W), opportunities (O) and threats (T)[21]. The SWOT analysis also helps to determine whether the company’s resources and capabilities are enough to compete with other organisations in the marker[22]. Strengths †¢ Strong and well-known brand name; †¢ Belonging to the family of the largest confectionary firm; †¢ M&M’s operates in over 65 countries around the globe[23]; †¢ Good reputation among customers and suppliers; †¢ High operational efficiency; †¢ High-quality products[24]; †¢ M&M’s chocolate beans are the best selling candies in the market; †¢ New brand ‘My M&M’s’, which offers customisation; †¢ Strong leadership and teamwork; †¢ Good resource allocation; †¢ Ability to listen to employees’ and customers’ ideas[25]. Weaknesses †¢ M&M’s promotional campaigns require considerable funding; †¢ Employees are resistant to change; †¢ Complex business environment, which causes interest conflicts; †¢ Flat organisational structure has some disadvantages. For example, one employee may have a few bosses. Furthermore, this structure type may limit the company’s growth. †¢ Mars Incorporated was criticised for contracting with low-cost African suppliers of cocoa beans, who used child labour[26]; †¢ Lack of innovative ideas and no recent innovations in the product range. Opportunities †¢ Further market expansion; †¢ Wider diversification of products in the foreign markets; †¢ To meet customer demand; †¢ Technology improvement and development[27]; †¢ Innovation; †¢ Creation of brand-new goods; †¢ Elimination of disadvantages related to flat structure[28]. Threats †¢ Lack of innovations can cause shifts in consumer tastes. To be more specific, customers can stop buying old and outmoded candies and start buying new candies with innovated product and package design. †¢ The number of competitors may increase[29]; †¢ Further growth of trade barriers; †¢ Decrease in consumer demand; †¢ M&M’s rivals’ innovated design can give competitive advantage. The Cultural Web analysis helps to see a more comprehensive and bigger picture of the company’s culture[30]. The framework consists of 6 separate dimensions, which are stories, symbols, power structures, organisational structures, control systems and rituals and routines[31]. Stories Mars Incorporated, the owner of M&M’s, is one of the greatest examples of the so-called ‘American dream’ realisation. Founded in 1911, Mars became a multi-national company with more than 50,000 employees very quickly. Workers of the firm are viewed as the most valuable asset. This idea is one of the main company’s focuses. Employees work in a highly motivating and inspiring environment[33]. They are given bonuses for coming to work on time, which stimulates their performance and productiveness[34]. Symbols Small panned chocolate candies covered with coloured edible shell, which does not allow chocolate to melt in one’s hands, prove to be the major symbol of the company. Furthermore, the letter ‘m’, which stands for M&M’s name is a highly recognisable symbol. In addition, excellent quality and great taste have made M&M’s the world’s best selling candies[35]. Power Structure Mars Incorporated, the parent company of M&M’s, was established as a family business. It was founded by Frank Mars in 1911 in Tacoma. Today, John Mars, a grandson of Frank Mars, is the chairman of the company. Paul Michaels is the company’s CEO at the moment. All the serious decisions in the company are made by the members of the Mars family[36]. Middle managers are given less power in the organisation. They are responsible for ‘insider’ management, and do not participate in taking strategic decisions. Organisational Structure The company has a flat organisational structure. This means that the number of intermediates between top managers and employees is reduced to a minimum. Hence, the role of middle managers is nearly eliminated[37]. Employees are actively involved the corporate decision-making process and can easily access the senior management. This type of organisational structure allows improving communication between management and workers. The company is teamwork oriented, which is another benefit of the flat structure type[38]. Control Systems It has been mentioned that one of the major corporate values and principles in Mars and M&M’s is efficiency. The company’s aim is to generate the maximum revenue using minimum input materials and resources. Another important value is quality, which needs to be given considerable attention and accurately controlled. The company relies on an internal control system, which guarantees achievement of such objectives, as efficiency and compliance with the relevant laws and regulations. Other departments of the organisation are manufacturing, marketing, sales, human resource, research and development, supply, communications and finance[39]. Rituals and Routines Unchanged design of chocolate beans since 1941 may be viewed as one of the key rituals of M&M’s. The firm regularly organises informal events for its employees, which improve communication between organisational members and facilitate learning in the workplace. The slogan of the company illustrates the main distinctive feature of M&M’s chocolate beans: â€Å"Melt in your mouth, not in your hands†[40], which builds strong associations with M&M’s candies. This slogan stimulates customers to test the firm’s promise. Hence, eating chocolate beans that do not melt in hands has become another important ritual. Another important analytical framework, which helps to understand the overall degree of rivalry in the industry where the company operates, is Porter’s Five Forces[41]. According to this model, each industry is influenced by five forces, namely supplier power, buyer power, threats of new entrants, threats of substitutes and degree of rivalry. Supplier power There are plenty of suppliers all over the world that sell cocoa beans. M&M’s buys considerable amount of cocoa beans and is dependent on prices set by the suppliers. Even insignificant growth of prices can result in increase in the prices for the final production by M&M’s. On the other hand, M&M’s can easily switch suppliers since it does not have long-term obligations. Thus, supplier power is low[42]. Buyer power M&M’s is presented in more than 70 countries. This means that the firm’s customers are many and they are highly fragmented. No single customer can significantly impact M&M’s and their pricing policy. It can be concluded that the buyer power is low[43]. Threats of new entrants New entrants in the confectionery market are possible. However, new market players need to meet huge capital requirements in order to enter the market and start accumulating large market share. For this reason, it may be assumed that the threats of new entrants are medium[44]. Threats of substitutes There are plenty of other large multinational companies and highly recognisable brands in the confectionary market (e.g. Kraft Foods, Nestle, Hershey Co and Cadbury). If M&M’s will demonstrate weak innovativeness and creativeness in product range, customers can easily switch to alternative manufacturers and their goods. Threats of substitutes may be evaluated as high[45].

Case analysis for Hyundai Card Essay

As a latecomer in Korean credit card market, Hyundai Card has gradually increased the market share since it entered the business in 1999. With its tie with Hyundai motor group, the company branded itself as â€Å"Hyundai M Card†. It started off by attracting buyer to consider using the card to purchase Hyundai automobile by offering discount. In later stages, the company has adopted the customer segmentation strategy to diversify its target groups of clients. With the emphasis on market segmentation based on different groups of card holders, utilizing clients’ card usage data, it has led to the unique customized service via alphabet card marketing activities. The strategy has led to great success, Hyundai Card received a Number One ranking in the Korea’s National Customer Satisfaction Index. The Korean credit card market has experienced a period of overheating due to a rapid expansion in the number of cards, reduced standards for issuing cards, etc. However, in recent years, Korean government has tighten up the policy in the credit card industry, and it results in lower % returns for the card issuer. The market has become saturated, consumers are having too many different options in card for different needs. But the fact is that most people are only using 1 or 2 cards, and the rising cost of operating business also presents an area of concern for major card player like Hyundai Card. Background Hyundai Card is a credit card company in South Korea. Hyundai Motor Group and GE Capital are two of their largest shareholders. The company entered the credit card business in 1999 through the acquisition of Diners Card as a subsidiary. In 2001, the card’s name was changed to â€Å"Hyundai Card†. Credit card business in South Korea is a competitive market. According to a report of The Economist, Korea has the equivalent of 4.4 cards for every  member of the labor force. And Koreans made frequent transactions with credit card, on average, each Korean swipes card for 129.7 times in 2011. That number has well exceeded Americans (77.9) and Canadians (89.6). Hyundai Card is the fourth biggest credit card issuer in South Korea. As per stats in May 2007, it captures a 9.96% share of the market. The Korean credit card market is led by Koomin (16.21%), LG (16.08%), Samsung (12.33). Among the major players in the credit card market, Hyundai is considered as a latecomer. Current Situation Hyundai card has continued to increased its market share in the competitive Korean market. As per stats at the end of 2012, Hyundai Card had a market share of 14.3%. And Hyundai Card has also received a good market reputation being ranked as Number One in the Korea’s National Customer Satisfaction Index. Critical Marketing Issue The credit card industry has underwent an adjustment period. Credit card company experience a growth in the number of late payment and bad debts. And the card market has become saturated, as there are too many card products in the market, which card caters for different need. In fact, most card holder only uses 1 or 2 credit card to purchase. Another is the political factor of the tightening government policy, it has also present a problem to card issuers as they are having lower % of return in the business. In 2012, the government barred card companies from extracting higher fees from smaller merchants. And it also make it easier for customer to compare interest rates across products and harder for less credit worthy borrowers to spend beyond their means. As a result, many card issuing companies started to cut the budget and become more conservative in doing their card business. Alternative Solutions 1. Try to move out of the business by selling it to a suitable buyer Pros: If the company can find a suitable buyer and sell the business at a good price, once and for all, the company does not need to face the problem in the market. The proceed of selling the business may help raise substantial fund capital and enable the company to invest in other business with higher return. Cons: With the end of the credit card business era, Hyundai may suffer certain degree of reputational loss in the domestic market, people may start to worry about the future of the company, it may cause bigger problem to other core business such as the automobile business. 2. Down size the business by cutting cost Pros: The company can remain as a player in local card business, and the company can allocate additional budget to invest in other areas of business with higher return Cons: With less budget allocated, the company may start to lose the status as one of the four biggest player in Korean card business 3. Stay aggressive in card business but try harder to expand the international market Pros: While the company remains its presence in its domestic market, the company will develop more profit growing point in overseas market Cons: The uncertainty in less mature overseas market may not guarantee profit, it can also lead to unexpected loss for the company Decision Matrix Three options may be good options for different companies. For prestigious  brand name like Hyundai Motor and GE, it is always not a wise choice to come up with a solution with the aim of securing short term profit at the expense of sacrificing the brand equity. As a late comer to the card market, Hyundai card has experienced success by capturing larger market share. And the good reputation of customer satisfaction is also an important asset. Therefore there is no way for the company to sell or downsize their business. With less promising future in the local market, the company should start to concentrate to penetrate into other markets in order to develop more profit growing points and remain as a leading brand name in the credit card business. The company has the experience in automobile business in overseas and relevant expertise in Korean credit card, those are the strength that can help the company to capture the opportunities in those less mature market at the same minimizing the chance of failure. Recommendation Target Markets Mainland China, other developing South East Asia countries Positioning With its tie with the branded name in Hyundai Motor, it should position itself as one of the premium brand in the market. Marketing Mix Elements ( 4 Ps) Price: Should aim at customers at high end with high social status Product: Black and Purple card are issued for high social status people in Korea, it can also be used in other markets Promotion: Seek cooperation with branded companies such as winery, golf club,etc. Try to offer card holder with incentive using the card to purchase Place: Golf club, luxury suites Evaluation: The company should conduct effective marketing survey at least once a year to evaluate the effectiveness of marketing campaign and the overall strategy Conclusion For prestigious brand name like Hyundai Motor and GE, it is always not a wise choice to come up with a solution with the aim of securing short term profit at the expense of sacrificing the brand equity. As a late comer to the card market, Hyundai card has experienced success by capturing larger market share. And the good reputation of customer satisfaction is also an important asset. Therefore there is no way for the company to sell or downsize their business. With less promising future in the local market, the company should start to concentrate to penetrate into other markets in order to develop more profit growing points and remain as a leading brand name in the credit card business. The company has the experience in automobile business in overseas and relevant expertise in Korean credit card, those are the strength that can help the company to capture the opportunities in those less mature market at the same minimizing the chance of failure. Bibliography HyundaiCard’s Marketing Strategy, by Chan Soo Park and Ronald D. Camp II, 2009 Hyundai internet home page (http://ir.hyundaicard.com/ceh/ho/cehho0101_01.hc) http://totalidentity.com/hyundai-card-innovation-growth-activation-rebranding http://www.economist.com/news/finance-and-economics/21589470-it-getting-harder-make-money-worlds-most-prolific-card-users-swipe

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FGM among the Maasai of Kenya - Term Paper Example Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to the removal of an entire or a part of the external parts of the female sexual organ. In most practicing societies, the Maasai included, popular opinion towards FGM by the Maasai of Kenya is that its effects are more counterproductive than benevolent on the life of the innocent girl, and it should be disbanded. In the first place, there is a multiplicity of negative health consequences which are associated with FGM. First, FGM readily brings with it, hemorrhage, since the sponsors who preside over it are usually bereft of adequate surgical or clinical skills. Sponsors in this case are those who preside over this rite of passage. Again, the clandestine nature with which FGM is practiced makes adequate preparations for the ritual nearly impossible. This includes the failure to feature clinical tools to control bleeding as part of the sponsors’ paraphernalia. Largely, the legal proscription of the act by the Government of Kenyan 9 years ag o, underpins the clandestine nature of FGM practices. According to Maasai Rising (2013), the gravity of the matter above cannot be downplayed. Despite the Government of Kenya’s act of outlawing the FGM, the prevalence of FGM among the Maasai of Kenya remains at an appalling 95-97%. It is estimated that 5% of this population is lost annually, to hemorrhage sustained from the rite of passage. What exacerbates the situation is the fact that the age of eligible FGM candidates keeps reducing. Candidates are people who have been designated for initiation. The reason behind the reduction in the age of the potential FGM candidates among the Kenyan Maasai girls is that the Government of Kenya has appointed non-Maasai teachers to enlighten and conscientize the Maasai girl child on FGM and its dangers. These teachers usually teach in the upper years of primary school education, where most female students are considered ripe for circumcision. Because of this increased enlightenment among Maasai girls, the age of circumcision gets lowered to parry away rebellion from the girl child who is older and more enlightened. This means that presently, most candidates are not those at the onset of puberty, but those between 4 and 9 years. The crux of the matter herein is that the younger candidates are not strong enough to withstand to heavy bleeding and succumb to it. Because of the failure to make proper arrangements to deal with clinical complications that may accost FGM, there are other pitfalls that follow it as a rite of passage. Cases of urethral damage also highly and consistently accost FGM since sponsors who preside over FGM are not clinically or medically trained. Again, reports by Maasai Evangelistic Association (2012) show that FGM is inextricably concomitant with urinary tract infections, cervical infections, chronic pelvic infections and dermatoid cysts. Sometimes, the birth canal is interfered with to the point of causing dangerous childbirth in future. In mos t instances, the spread of the HIV/AIDS virus is easily aided by the practice of FGM since only one blade is used on all participating candidates. The blade is only wiped on grass and nearby vegetative undergrowth to wipe off blood. This makes it too easy for infections to pass from one candidate to another, should one candidate be a disease carrier. However, the Maasai Evangelistic Association (2012) observes that it is important to note that the malevolent nature FGM is not merely embodied by the health implications that accompany the practice. To argue otherwise

Quality Assessment Essay Example for Free

Quality Assessment Essay â€Å"Assessment practises have a powerful impact on learning and teaching† (Curriculum Council of Western Australia, 2004, p. 37). For teachers the focus is on the use of assessment results; how they use those results to inform instructional decision making and whether they provide results that verify students have indeed met the learning targets originally set. Thus, judgements are made about the quality of assessments after the students’ performance. ‘High-quality’ assessments encompass a number of criteria’s and involve a great deal more than simply measuring knowledge (McMillan, 2011) and are outlined below in seven key areas. 1. Clear Purpose – The first decision is clarify the purpose for the assessment. Why is the assessment taking place? What is to be gained from it? Will the teacher be using formative techniques to monitor student progress or will the teacher use summative techniques to establish grades (Chappuis, Chappuis, Stiggins, 2009)? â€Å"Knowing the reason for the assessment is crucial because this will determine what the assessment should look like, how it is administered and scored, and how the results will be used (McMillan, 2011, p.10)†. 2. Defined Learning Targets –Are they reasonable and do they ‘align’ with the state standards, student characteristics and overall goals (McMillan, 2011)? Learning targets need to be clear and understandable to everyone (Chappuis, Chappuis, Stiggins, 2009). Learning targets are important as they define expectations. 3. Assessment Methods – The assessment methods, using either selected or constructed responses, need to align with the chosen learning targets (McMillan, 2011). â€Å"Selecting an assessment method that is incapable of reflecting the intended learning will compromise the accuracy of the results† (Chappuis, Chappuis, Stiggins, 2009). These also need to practical and efficient so as not to be too time consuming on lessons. 4. Fairness – Fair assessments are unbiased without the influence of discrimination or subjective factors (McMillan, 2011). â€Å"All students should have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their achievement† (Curriculum Council of Western Australia, 2004, p. 38). 5.Validity Reliability – Judgements should be based on all information and multiple measures that authenticate the conclusion (Curriculum Council of Western Australia, 2004). The assessment is useless unless the inference is appropriate, useful, reasonable and consistent (McMillan, 2011). 6. Criteria – Outlining criteria contributes to students’ learning by making clear the outcomes or goals they are striving for (Curriculum Council of Western Australia, 2004). â€Å"The issue of how student responses will be evaluated lies at the heart of any type of assessment† (McMillan, 2011, p.35). 7. Feedback – Feedback should be clear and constructive. Feedback by both by the teacher and self-assessment allows students to take responsibility for their learning and helps students â€Å"identify how they can improve their learning† (Killen, 2005, p. 98) and ensure motivation is high through positive consequences. By ensuring the lessons have a clear purpose, are well planned and allow all students’ to demonstrate their achievements through a fair, valid and reliable process, learning and teaching is improved and achievement is enhanced. â€Å"High quality assessments have consequences that will be positive for both students and yourself† (McMillan, 2011, p. 86). References Chappuis, S. , Chappuis, J. , Stiggins, R. (2009). The Quest for Quality. Multiple Measures , 67 (3), 14-19. Curriculum Council of Western Australia. (2004). Curriculum Framework. Osborne Park: W. A. Killen, R. (2005). Programming and assessment for quality teaching and learning. South Thompson: Cengage. McMillan, J. H. (2011). Classroom Assessment: Principles and Practice for Effective Standards Based Instruction (Fifth ed. ). Boston: Pearson.

Effect of sleep quality on perceived academic performance

Effect of sleep quality on perceived academic performance Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to study the impact of the quality of sleep of student of premier MBA institutes on their perceived academic performance. This study also aims to establish whether the burnout faced by students behaves as a mediator in the relationship between the sleep quality and the perceived academic performance. Finally, keeping work experience as a moderator, we also aim to study whether students with more than 12 months of work experience show any difference in the results when compared to those with less than 12 months experience. Design/methodology/approach: A questionnaire was designed using 3 pre-existing scales to measure Sleep Quality, Burnout and Perceived Academic Performance. This questionnaire was floated in the electronic format to students of XLRI Jamshedpur and other schools of business in India. A total of 163 students responded with completely filled in surveys. Findings: The study concluded that the Sleep Quality does not have a direct impact on the Perceived Academic Performance in the case of students without work-experience. However, the indirect effect is significant, and Sleep Quality affects Burnout, which in turn has an impact on Perceived Academic Performance. Research limitations/implications: One of the major limitations of the study was that majority of the respondents were from only one Business-school, viz. XLRI Jamshedpur. In order to generalize the result across all B-school students of India, more participants from other B-schools need to be contacted. Also, while the Academic Confidence Scale, used to measure perceived academic performance, is better than using only grades, a better scale needs to be developed to thoroughly measure the performance of students not only in examinations but also in class through learning capacity, etc. Originality/value: Previous studies have identified that there is certainly an impact of duration and quality of sleep on the academic performance of high-school (and younger) students, as well as on the organisational performance of professionals. However, no study has previously been conducted for students of MBA courses. Keywords: Sleep Quality, Perceived Academic Performance, Burnout, Exhaustion Paper Type: Research Introduction As the corporate world begins to get more competitive, greater demands are made by organisations from employees and even more from those in managerial capacities. These demands are met by working professionals who modify their lifestyles in order to dedicate more time and effort towards achieving the high standards set by a demanding corporate world. This includes habits such as skipping breakfast and sleeping less. Such characteristics are observed also among B-school students who live on or near campus. Apart from low duration of sleep, many students also have irregular sleeping patterns and their quality of sleep is often not very high due to disturbances and other reasons. This irregular sleep pattern and low quality of sleep result in a drop in perceived academic performance of students. The high levels of academic rigour encouraged by the premier B-schools of India result in a high requirement of hard work and a very large number of hours per week to be put into coursework. A continued high level of demand can result in students feeling a sense of burning out-which is defined by a drop in motivation levels to work, mental exhaustion and sometimes also leads to students questioning their courses and their own abilities. Irregular and poor quality sleep is likely to result in a quicker onset of burnout among students. It is to be expected that once students start burning out, their performance in class and their confidence in their academic capabilities begin to suffer. Prior studies have observed and established the effect of sleep quality on students of high-school and of younger ages. Some studies have also been carried out on students of under-graduate courses. However, our study is primarily aimed at observing these effects on students of Business schools only. We are also aiming to establish whether or not the burnout level of a student is a significant mediator on the effect of sleep quality on perceived academic performance. Research background and hypotheses Sleep Quality Sleep is a complex phenomenon to measure. Sleep quantity is considered universally as a good measure to evaluate this phenomenon but results indicate that for studies, researchers should use sleep quality than sleep quantity which includes many other factors other than just the duration of sleep (Vail-Smith et al, 2009). In some studies, sleep quality was measured by factors such as sleep environment, noise disturbances, other sleep accessories (Triangle Business Journal, 2010). Many other studies measured sleep by collecting information regarding not just the number of hours of sleep but also time awake in the middle of the night, time taken to fall asleep related factors (Business Wire, 2009) To suit our requirement for measuring sleep quality, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (Sleep Medicine Index, 2010) was used. This index includes not only the number of hours of sleep but also any disturbances in sleep, sleeping waking up time, and the subsequent effects of the sleep pattern on the subsequent days functioning. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (Buysse et al. 1989a) helps to discriminate between good and poor sleepers. The different dimensions covered by this index are Subjective Sleep Quality, Sleep Latency, Sleep Duration, Habitual Sleep Efficiency, Sleep Disturbances, Use of Sleep Medications, and Daytime Dysfunction. It is comprises of 19 self-rated questions 5 questions that are by a roommate. In the end it generates seven scores by summing up the component scores of the seven components. For our research purpose, we have taken only the 19 self-rated questions only since in the B-School context many students stay in single rooms in hostels. Hence, including the other 5 questions will not aid in the research. For the scale items, see Appendix 1. Burnout No doubt the sleep quality affects the perceived academic performance but it alone will keep the research restricted. Hence, a mediating variable is used to explain the whole effect. So burnout is used as a mediator here. Burnout is a concept that is used mainly in the work related context. It is defined as a syndrome of emotional exhaustion, cynicism or depersonalization, and reduced personal efficacy. Common symptoms of burnout are stress, exhaustion, fatigue, lack of concentration etc. As stated above, usually burnout is used in work related context especially for executives, CEOs etc (Anonymous, 2002); however, we have extended its usage for B-School students as well. Since a B-School environment demands meeting deadlines, toiling hard working for long hours- all of which are reasons that can cause burnout. To measure Burnout, School Burnout Inventory (SBI) is used. This inventory comprises of three dimensions- exhaustion, cynicism towards meaning of school sense of inadequacy. Out of these, only first two namely, exhaustion cynicism are used in our research; inadequacy is not measured since it is not applicable for our sample students. For the scale items, see Appendix 2. Perceived Academic Performance Instead of taking the academic Grade point as a measure of the academic performance of a student, we took the perceived academic performance as an effective construct to measure the capability of a student. Since academic performance means understanding, assimilating reproducing the teachings not getting good grades alone. This has been cited as the militation in many studies before. According to researchers, learning satisfaction from the course sheds more light on the topic of academic performance. (Garger et al, 2010) To measure the perceived Academic Performance for the B-School student, Academic Confidence Scale (ACS) is used. This scale has six factors namely, studying, understanding, verbalizing, clarifying, attendance grades. Out of these, verbalizing clarifying are not very relevant variables in a B-School context since these are basic skills which are expected from all students of B-schools. For the scale items, see Appendix 3. Work Experience as Moderator Research has been done linking sleep deprivation with burnout in corporate environment. The continuous stress that people in jobs feel is more especially at the higher levels in the organization (Anonymous, 2002). This continuous exposure to the high levels of stress gives students with more than 12 months of work experience more ability to handle low quality sleep and therefore, it should not affect their performance. Sleep Quality Burnout Burnout has a variety of causes and symptoms that erode the mental, emotional and spiritual quality of life. (Francis, 2006) Among other symptoms, sleep quality is considered as one of the major symptoms of burnout in humans. During sleep our body releases hormones etc which are used to repair damaged cells etc. Lack of sleep stops this process and hence leads to irritation, frustration, fatigue-all symptoms of burnout (Francis, 2006). Human body has a natural way of relieving stress through sleep (Spencer, 1987). Research has been done linking sleep deprivation with burnout in medical students (Dyrbye et al, 2006) corporate (Anonymous, 2002) but no such study has been done in B-School students. This research gap has been identified used in our model. Burnout and Perceived Academic Performance Students who feel energetic feel the vigour to perform give good academic results compared to their counterparts (Schaufeli et al, 2002). Burnout levels of students indicated by stress, fatigue etc cause low performance by students in academics this result is true not just for people of a particular nationality but has been proved for people of many countries (Schaufeli et al, 2002). This result can be used here as well for linking the burnout to academic performance of B-School students. Since in a B-School environment, there is a high stress work load which causes burnout to a large extend hence can affect the academic performance of the students. Sleep Quality and Perceived Academic Performance In the past, extensive research has been done in the area of sleep affecting academic performance. Most of the students who complained about sleep difficulties showed a drop in the performance compared to the others. (Anonymous, 2008). Regular proper sleep patterns among others are healthy habits which affect the grades a student gets. (Paul et al, 2008). Especially in a college environment, the students who take enough sleep, tend to score better than the others who sleep less. (France. 2009). Sleep patterns of college students are unique since it is influenced by work-related stress, parties, communal living arrangements etc. (Vail-Smith, 2009) This is an interesting observation as peoples attitude here are determined, to a large extent, by the group dynamics. Methods Sample The targeted sample consisted of B-school students studying in a 2-year full-time Post-Graduate course in MBA. Most of the respondents were students of the first year who have spent approximately 9 months in the course. However, some students of the second year have also been contacted to take their responses. The questionnaire, consisting of 33 items, was hosted online on Google Documents and the link to the form was sent personally to students via email and instant messages. The form contained no personal information that could be used to identify the respondents. In total, 163 respondents filled in the questionnaire. Of these, it is estimated that 131 respondents are from among the first and second year students of XLRI Jamshedpur. The remaining 32 respondents are from other institutes across India. Measures Our model consists of 3 constructs and one moderator as given below. The constructs were measured using modified versions of pre-existing scales as indicated below. Figure 1: Model Sleep Quality Work Experience Burnout Academic Confidence Sleep Quality Sleep Quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a 24-item scale that consists of various types of questions ranging from subjective questions to multiple-choice questions, as well as some questions based loosely on the Likert Scale. Of the 24 items present on the PSQI, we have modified the scale to exclude the last 6 items (refer Appendix 1), since these are not applicable to B-school students. These questions are to be answered if the respondent generally sleeps with a partner or room-mate, and if the room-mate has observed any irregular sleeping patterns. Burnout Burnout has been measured by the School Burnout Inventory, developed by Salmela-Aro et al (Salmela-Aro,K. et al, 2009). This inventory was developed to be used on higher secondary school students and contains 9 items that measure burnout on 3 dimensions-exhaustion due to coursework, cynicism towards school and inadequacy at performing well at school. Of these dimensions, we have chosen to study only exhaustion and cynicism, since inadequacy is not applicable to students of the age of MBA students. Therefore, the scale has been modified to include only 7 questions in the final questionnaire (refer Appendix 2). Perceived Academic Performance The perceived academic performance is measured by using the Academic Confidence Scale (ACS) (Sander, P. Sanders, L., 2003). This scale consists of 24 items based on 5-point Likert scale. The questions measure Academic Confidence in 6 dimensions-Studying, Understanding, Attendance, Grades, Verbalizing, Clarifying. Of these 6 dimensions, the last 2 are not applicable for students of B-schools, since it is assumed that these students would show an accomplished level of verbalizing and clarifying aptitude. Of the remaining questions, we have chosen 8 items (Appendix 3) that display the best coefficients for the remaining 4 dimensions. Analysis The analysis is carried out for both Moderator Analysis and Mediator Analysis. For types of analysis, we are using the four-step method developed by Baron and Kenny (Baron, R.M. Kenny, D.A., 1986). For Moderator Analysis, we initially select all cases for which the student has work experience greater than 12 months and carry out the analysis. Similarly, the same is carried out for students having greater than 12 months of work experience. Finally, all cases are taken to carry out the Mediation Analysis. In order to measure the significance of mediation analysis, the Sobel Test is carried out as well. Results Sleep Quality and Burnout The regression analysis was carried out to find out the relationship between sleep quality burnout. It was carried out for both the values of the bi-variate moderator. Relationship Significance Unstandardised coefficient Standardised coefficient R Square Work experience 0.000 0.453 0.405 0.164 Work experience > 12 m 0 0.428 0.444 0.197 Overall 0 0.461 0.442 0.195 Table 1: Results for Sleep quality Burnout As we can see from the above table, the relation is significant in all the three cases the impact is also almost the same. From the values of beta and B, we can interpret that for every B-School student a poor sleep quality leads to increase in burnout. This could be attributed to the fact that burnout is a physical a mental condition which is same for the all the human beings. Every human being needs sleep to recover energy though the time duration of the requirement may be different. But a minimum amount of sleep is necessary for all. Burnout and Perceived Academic Performance The regression analysis was carried out to find out the relationship between burnout and academic performance. It was carried out for both the values of the bi-variate moderator. Relationship Significance Unstandardised coefficient Standardised coefficient R Square Work experience 0.001 -0.53 -0.355 0.126 Work experience > 12 m 0.002 -0.541 -0.355 0.126 Overall 0 -0.527 -0.353 0.125 Table 2: Results for Burnout Perceived academic Performance As we can see, here also burnout level increase leads to a decrease in the perceived academic performance of an individual. This shows that a persons perceived academic performance is affected by the burnout level. This in turn proves the hypothesis stated and reinforces the previous researches done on the same subject. Sleep Quality and Perceived Academic Performance The regression analysis was carried out to find out the relationship between sleep quality perceived academic performance. It was carried out for both the values of the bi-variate moderator. Relationship Significance Unstandardised coefficient Standardised coefficient R Square Work experience 0.883 -0.040 -0.024 0.001 Work experience >12 m 0.009 -0.443 -0.302 0.091 Overall 0.081 -0.213 -0.137 0.019 Table 3: Results for Sleep quality Perceived Academic Performance As we can see that the significance level is within the confidence interval only for the values with work experience > 12 months. The likely reason for this can be that people with work experience are used to maintaining high pressures on the job. Working round the clock, meeting deadlines etc are a part of their lives and they dont feel much difference when they enter a B-School. In contrast to this, freshers (college graduates) are not accustomed to a hectic schedule. The model with the results is shown below: Figure 2: Model with the moderator values Values on the left hand side are values for work experience less than 12 months; Values on the right hand side are values for work experience more than 12 months *symbolises that the result is significant Discussions and Implications As we can see, that the total effect is significant but is attributed to the indirect effect only and not to the direct effect. Also, the net magnitude of the total effect is very less. The factors that can be attributed to these results can be as follows. Over a period of time, human body adapts itself to any routine. Here the timing of our research plays an important role. Most of our respondents are 1st year MBA students who have spent almost nine months in a B-School. Nine months is a long enough time for the human body to adapt to such any change in routine. Had this research been conducted when the students entered the B-School, results might have been different The age group of all the respondents is between 20 to 30 years. In this age group predominantly, the human body has the energy, stamina the will to withstand any adversities in the external environment. If such a study is conducted in people of a different age group, their body might not have the vigour and will to withstand harsh environment circumstances Also, as we saw that the direct relationship between sleep quality perceived academic performance is significant only in the case of people having work experience more than 12 months. As we know, across B-Schools in India, number of students with prior work experience is less compared to the others. Hence, had the research been conducted for B-Schools overseas as well, the results might have been different with a significant direct effect as well. This research highlights the relationship between poor sleep quality burnout of students in B-Schools. This further leads to a dip in their perceived academic performance. To avoid this, B-school administration should consider preparing the schedule or curriculum of the academic year in such a way that the students dont need to compromise on their sleep quality. This will help them maintain attentiveness, concentration, etc. this in turn will help them improve their perceived academic performance. Also, the hectic life-style in a B-school takes its toll on mental health of the students by making them cynical in their approach towards their courses/academics due to burnout. Limitations Following are the limitations we encountered during this research study: Sample size not large enough: Although, responses from 163 respondents were collected but, still larger number of respondents if covered would lend more accuracy to the research findings. Also, majority of the respondents (about 80%) are XLRI students, research findings could be much more accurate if we can collect more responses from other B-school students. Timing of the survey: Since, after spending about 9-10 months in a B-school environment, students become habitual to this kind of a life style, so the impact of sleep quality on burnout or their perceived academic performance subsides. Had this research been conducted when the students would have just entered the B-school, responses would have been more impactful. Age group of the respondents: Since, most of the students in a B-school are in the age group of 20 to 30 years, they have much more will power their capabilties in terms of adapting to the needs of the environment are much more. Thus, they easily adopt to the lifestyle requirements of a B-school. Homogeneous group: These responses are collected from the respondents belonging to the same race culture, thus, the group is homogeneous. Responses should also be collected from the students of foreign B-schools who belong to different race, culture, religon ethnicity then, the findings would be far more accurate diverse. Group Dynamics: Group Dynamics play a very important role in influencing the behaviour of B-school students. Since, almost everybody sleeps late in the night, so it becomes a norm nobody feels that he/she is not getting enough sleep or he/she is being sleep deprived. Future Scope The scope of this research can be extended in future as follows: Increase the sample size to include students from other B-schools also, not only students from top B-schools. Also, students from foreign B-schools can be included in the sample. Similar research can be done for students who are not B-school students but, tend to follow similar life-style, like aspirants preparing for competitive entrance examinations. As already stated above, this research should include the responses of the students studying in foreign B-schools. Probably, then we will be able to make general statements about the characteristics of all B-school students. We need to measure the effect of Group dynamics also in our research study since group behaviour is known to influence the norms in the group. The timing of the research study is very important. Research should be conducted at the start of the B-school session for new admits who have not become habitual to B-school lifestyle. References Anas, B. (2009), Sleepless On Campus, McClatchy Tribune Business News. Training Development Anonymous (2002), To burnout and back: CEOs are top candidates for stress overload. Admit it or face the consequences, Profit. Toronto: Sep 2002. Vol. 21, Iss. 5; pg. 70 Anonymous (2008), Study Finds Lack of Sleep, Excessive Computer Screen Time, Stress and More Hurt College Students Grades; University of Minnesota study is the first to present data showing direct link between health-related behaviors and grades, PR Newswire. New York Baron, R.M. and Kenny, D.A. (1986), The moderator-mediator distinction in social psychological research: conceptual, Strategic, and statistical considerations, Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol. 51, pp. 1173-82. Bower, B. (2002), Snooze Power, Science News.  Washington:  Vol.  161,  Iss.  22; pp. 341.  Alexandria Vol.  48,  Iss.  11;   pp 8 Business Wire (2009), First-of-Its-Kind Sleep Innovation Helps Consumers Measure and Manage Sleep Quality to Achieve a Better Nights Rest., , last accessed on 23-March-2010 Dyrbye, L.N., Thomas, M.R., Huntington, J.L., Lawson, K.L., Novotny, P.J., Sloan, J.A., Shanafelt, T.D. (2006), Academic Medicine: Volume 81 Issue 4 pp 374-384 France, K (2009), SWArticle: Sleepless on Campus, The Carletonian, 2009 Fall Issue 4, , last accessed on 23-March-2010 Francis, L. (2006), More on Burnout, Qualified Remodeler. Chicago: Apr 2006. Vol. 32, Iss. 4; pg. 22 Garger, J., Thomas, M., Jacques, P.H. (2010), Early antecedents to students expected performance, International Journal of Educational Management, Vol: 24, Iss 2, pp. 129 138 Paul, M., Panton, C., Marzigliano, N (2008), Do Students With Healthy Habits Perform Better In Their Academics? Allied Academies International Conference. Academy of Educational Leadership. Proceedings. Cullowhee:Vol. 13, Iss. 2; pp. 47-55 Salmela-Aro,K., Kiuru,N., Leskinen,E. Nurmi,J. (2009), School Burnout Inventory (SBI): Reliability and Validity, European Journal of Psychological Assessment 2009; Vol. 25(1): pp.48-57 Sander, P. And Sanders, L. (2003), Measuring confidence in academic study: A summary report, Electronic Journal of Research in Educational Psychology, No. 5-3 (1), pp.113-130 Schaufeli, W.B., Martà ­nez, I.M, Pinto, A.M., Salanova, M. Bakker, A.B. (2002), Burnout and Engagement in University Students: A Cross-National Study, Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology; Vol 33; pp 464 Sleep Medicine Institute (2010), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, , last accessed on 23-March-2010 Sorohan and Gordon, E., (1994), To Sleep, Perchance To Learn, Training Development.  Alexandria:   Vol.  48,  Iss.  11;   pp. 8 Spencer, D. (1987), Spacing Out at Work May Help Ward Off Job Burnout, St. Louis Business Journal. Vol. 8, Iss. 5; Sec. 3. pg. 5C Triangle Business Journal (2010), Soft? Firm? When Choosing a Mattress, One Firmness Does Not Fit All, , last accessed on 23-March-2010 Vail-Smith, K., Felts, W.M. Becker, C. (2009), Relationship Between Sleep Quality And Health Risk Behaviors In Undergraduate College Students, College Student Journal, East Carolina University, Vol. 43 Issue 3, p924-930 Appendix 1 Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index INSTRUCTIONS: The following questions relate to your usual sleep habits during the past month only. Your answers should indicate the most accurate reply for the majority of days and nights in the past month. Please answer all questions. 1. During the past month, what time have you usually gone to bed at night? BED TIME ___________ 2. During the past month, how long (in minutes) has it usually taken you to fall asleep each night? NUMBER OF MINUTES ___________ 3. During the past month, what time have you usually gotten up in the morning? GETTING UP TIME ___________ 4. During the past month, how many hours of actual sleep did you get at night? (This may be different than the number of hours you spent in bed.) HOURS OF SLEEP PER NIGHT ___________ For each of the remaining questions, check the one best response. Please answer all questions. 5. During the past month, how often have you had trouble sleeping because you . . . a) Cannot get to sleep within 30 minutes Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ b) Wake up in the middle of the night or early morning Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ c) Have to get up to use the bathroom Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ d) Cannot breathe comfortably Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ e) Cough or snore loudly Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ f) Feel too cold Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ g) Feel too hot Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ h) Had bad dreams Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ i) Have pain Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ j) Other reason(s), please describe__________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ How often during the past month have you had trouble sleeping because of this? Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ 6. During the past month, how would you rate your sleep quality overall? Very good ___________ Fairly good ___________ Fairly bad ___________ Very bad ___________ 7. During the past month, how often have you taken medicine to help you sleep (prescribed or over the counter)? Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ 8. During the past month, how often have you had trouble staying awake while driving, eating meals, or engaging in social activity? Not during the past one month _____ Less than once a week _____ Once or twice a week _____ Three or more times a week _____ 9. During the past month, how much of a problem has it been for you to keep up enough enthusiasm to get things done? No problem at all __________

Free My Antonia Essays: An Analysis :: My Antonia Essays

My Antonia I think that My Antonia, written in 1918, is one of Cather's finest works. Critic H. L. Mencken thought it to be the most accomplished, and shortly after it was published in 1919 he wrote, "Her style has lost self-consciousness; her feeling for form has become instinctive. And she has got such a grip upon her materials...I know of no novel that makes the remote folk of the Western praries more real...and I know of none that makes them seem better worth knowing." One of the high points in the story is the tragic case of Mr. Shimerda's death. In this character Cather shows an almost obsessive longing of hers for the past. A cultered man, Antonia's father cannot handle the hardships he encounters in Nebraska, and longs for his life back in Bohemia. He clings to his Old World wardrobe and foods..."a knitted grey vest, and, instead of a collar, a silk scarf of a dark bronze-green, carefully crossed and held together by a red coral pin." Homesick for his native land Mr. Shimerda shoots himself. Some critics find Cather's recurring preoccupation with the past destructive, T. K. Whipple said that there was an element of passion in the theme. "To have cared intensely about anything, is not to have lived in vain." I think that the theme of the immigrants longing for the past was very fitting. Many of the settlers of the mid-west praries were immigrants, and most did desperately try to cling to their past while building a new life in the melting pot of America. The hardships of the immigrants were not uncommon. Many were forced to go into town to become a "hired girl" as Antonia did before she returned to the farm labor that she enjoyed, where she discovered city life in the dance clubs. My favorite part about reading My Antonia is the beautiful descriptions of the land and other small details. In this story Jim Burden is not only a narrator for Cather, but for the land. Throughout the story his descriptions bring an eloquent style to her writing and capture the reader into the story. "Everywhere, as far as the eye could reach, there was nothing but rough, shaggy red grass, most as tall as I." In a phrase that is now on Cather's tombstone, he comes to accept the power of the land over him, saying, "That is happiness; to be dissolved into something complete and great.

Othello Comparison of Themes :: essays research papers

Themes Envy and jealousy are the catalysts for Hugo’s desire to hurt Odin and Mike. Hugo envies Mike for Odin choosing him over Hugo to share the coveted Most Valuable Player award (MVP). At the presentation Hugo’s own father, Coach Duke Goulding states boldly, â€Å"†¦And I’m not ashamed to say this in public but, I love him like a son.† The camera shows the dismay displayed on Hugo’s face. From this point on Hugo envies both Mike and Odin and pledges to do whatever required of him to ruin both their lives. Just as Othello prefers Cassio as his lieutenant rather than Iago. Iago also mentions in a soliloquy that, â€Å"  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  I hate the Moor, And it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets He’s done my office. I know if’t be true.† Iago is suspicious of his own wife being unfaithful and is jealous of Othello, even though it is only rumour not truth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hugo’s plan is to fill Odin’s mind with doubts of infidelity about Mike and Desi’s relationship. Hugo first mentions his suspicions in the gym where the two are alone. He tells Odin, â€Å"If there’s one thing I know it’s white girls, they’re like horny snakes.† Hugo asks if there’s anything going on between Desi and Mike and if Odin trusts Mike. If Hugo hadn’t of warned Odin, the thought would’ve never have occurred to him as he said to Mike, â€Å"What I’m gone a few hours and you’re already stealing my girl big Mike?† This was said sarcastically by Odin after he was admitted to hospital after retaining an arm injury playing basketball. Iago questions Cassio and Desdemona’s relationship just as Hugo did.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"†¦I speak not yet of proof. Look to your wife, observe her well with Cassio; Wear your eyes thus; not jealous, nor secure.† Eventually Odin becomes so envious and jealous of Mike and Desi’s supposed affair he is so motivated to kill Mike. â€Å"How can I kill this mother fucker Hugo?† But Hugo mentions Desi, which only places the idea in Odin’s mind, and shows Hugo’s powers of manipulation. â€Å"But what about Desi.† He replies. Othello reacts in the same manner as Odin. â€Å"†¦Within these three days let me hear thee say That Cassio’s not alive.† Iago’s agreeingly replies but also manipulates Othello by mentioning Desdemona.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"My friend is dead; ‘Tis down at your request. But let her live.† â€Å"Damn her, lewd minx! O, damn her, damn her!† Also included in this cycle of envy and jealousy is Roger who is envious of Desi and Odin’s relationship and is ever willing to help Hugo in his plan to break them up.

Hong Kong Post-colonial Cinema Essay -- Post Colonial Hong Kong Cultur

The Construction of the ‘Western Other’ in Hong Kong Post-colonial Cinema Hong Kong has always remained a very unique city, one which is said to have ‘a Western past, an Eastern future’. Since its colonisation by the British in the 1860s, it has maintained to a very large extent its Chinese identity and its connection to its Motherland, while at the same time, has frequent contact with the Western world, politically, economically, and culturally. Hong Kong’s unique position has made the city a vibrant international metropolis that acts as a bridge between East and West. Yet after it was returned to China in 1997, this former British colony has been constantly reassessing its British past, struggling to find its new position and redefining its identity. The quest for identity quickly finds its place in the construction of the notion of ‘Hong Kong-ness’ in films. The local cinema has remained as a powerful cultural institution, both reflecting and intervening in the discourses of alterities and selfhood. It is therefore not surprising that in local films, the cinematic representations of Hong Kong have been seen as inextricably interwoven with the triangular relationship between the British coloniser, the Chinese motherland, and Hong Kong itself. Since its inception in the 1910s, the Hong Kong film industry has enjoyed much independence from colonial control, yet simultaneously much association with Western culture. Many films openly deal with the theme of ‘East meets West’ in which ‘Hong Kongese’ identity is often expressed in "transnational settings" against the existence of a Western Other, in particular through the portrayal of Westerners visiting Asia, and vice versa. After the handover, "H ong Kong" as a geopolitical en... ...a journey of discovery/rediscovery of what the Western world comes to mean, while at the same time, negotiating the redefinition of selfhood and national identity of Hong Kong. The will to search for a reconciliation with the West in these films is certainly deeply embedded in Hong Kong’s search for its own identity in the post-colonial era. After its return to its Chinese motherland, Hong Kong consequently takes up the important position as the bridge between China and the West. Many recognize that its success to find its identity as part of China in the future depends on its ability to come to terms with its colonial past. Indeed, as we have seen, both films positively insist on the possibility of fulfilling such an aspiration. The process is not a comfortable one, and it is often one of pain and risks. Yet the films assure that it is also one of promise and hope. Hong Kong Post-colonial Cinema Essay -- Post Colonial Hong Kong Cultur The Construction of the ‘Western Other’ in Hong Kong Post-colonial Cinema Hong Kong has always remained a very unique city, one which is said to have ‘a Western past, an Eastern future’. Since its colonisation by the British in the 1860s, it has maintained to a very large extent its Chinese identity and its connection to its Motherland, while at the same time, has frequent contact with the Western world, politically, economically, and culturally. Hong Kong’s unique position has made the city a vibrant international metropolis that acts as a bridge between East and West. Yet after it was returned to China in 1997, this former British colony has been constantly reassessing its British past, struggling to find its new position and redefining its identity. The quest for identity quickly finds its place in the construction of the notion of ‘Hong Kong-ness’ in films. The local cinema has remained as a powerful cultural institution, both reflecting and intervening in the discourses of alterities and selfhood. It is therefore not surprising that in local films, the cinematic representations of Hong Kong have been seen as inextricably interwoven with the triangular relationship between the British coloniser, the Chinese motherland, and Hong Kong itself. Since its inception in the 1910s, the Hong Kong film industry has enjoyed much independence from colonial control, yet simultaneously much association with Western culture. Many films openly deal with the theme of ‘East meets West’ in which ‘Hong Kongese’ identity is often expressed in "transnational settings" against the existence of a Western Other, in particular through the portrayal of Westerners visiting Asia, and vice versa. After the handover, "H ong Kong" as a geopolitical en... ...a journey of discovery/rediscovery of what the Western world comes to mean, while at the same time, negotiating the redefinition of selfhood and national identity of Hong Kong. The will to search for a reconciliation with the West in these films is certainly deeply embedded in Hong Kong’s search for its own identity in the post-colonial era. After its return to its Chinese motherland, Hong Kong consequently takes up the important position as the bridge between China and the West. Many recognize that its success to find its identity as part of China in the future depends on its ability to come to terms with its colonial past. Indeed, as we have seen, both films positively insist on the possibility of fulfilling such an aspiration. The process is not a comfortable one, and it is often one of pain and risks. Yet the films assure that it is also one of promise and hope.

Just Some Revision Notes That I Made About Past Exams and That?

English Mock revision exam Read source 1, lifesaving with class, by Rory Stamp, from the RNLI magazine, the lifeboat. Question 1:- What do you learn about the beach article about the beach to city programme run by the RNLI? From the article we learn that that the beach to city programme is run by the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institute) and also that they do good work as a charity which very little I known about them in some places. Their aim is to ‘educate children about the dangers of the seaside and how to stay away from trouble. They teach these skills to primary school children because it is said that they are highlighted as a ‘higher risk group’ who are most likely to be unaware of what the RNLI are about. The RNLI teach kids about keeping safe in the sun. They advise to ‘slap on a sun hat, slop on sun cream’ and ‘slip on a T-shirt’ to protect themselves from the sun. Furthermore the RNLI aim to make all their lessons memorable a s well as enjoyable, they do these things by getting the kids to take part in play-acting and getting grips with equipment.Their sessions also focus on the use of public equipment (PRE), they do this by respecting and using life rings, throwing lines and emergency communication are very important to them in particular. The advice the PRE give is also aimed towards school children in London. They managed to visit 30 schools there. In the Future the RNLI education team aim to add a fourth city to the beach tour and plan to continue their work as well as adding more for the coming years.Now read source 2, the article and the picture which goes with it is called, Trapped Chilean miners: rescue drill reaches their refuge at last by David Batty. Question 2:- Explain how the headline and picture are effective and how they link to the text. Straight away we see the image of the clown because of its amazing range of colours in its outfit the affectivity of the bright coloured clown in the im age is because it draws the readers in because most people look at the image before actually reading the article.The connotations of bright colours often put forward positivity and success this may suggest that the writer is happy about something and as we read on and look at the heading it is clear to us why the writer is overjoyed, because the Chilean miners have eventually been rescued also underneath the image it explains that the purpose of the clown in the image is to celebrate with the TV reporters after a drill reaches the miners.If we look closer into the picture we also see some people behind the clown, the reader is immediately intrigued because the reader wants to know why they are there so therefore would want to read the article; which tells us that the people behind the clown were in fact â€Å"the miners relatives who have camped there†. The fact they have camped out shows their support, encouragement and they have not given up or lost hope in rescuing their l oved ones. In the heading it reads that the â€Å"trapped Chilean miners; rescue drill reaches their refuge at last†.From this we can tell that the miners have gone through a lot of struggle to get out of the mine as we read on we realise that 33 Chilean have broken through into a underground chamber and were unfortunately trapped â€Å"since august†. Furthermore in the image alongside the clown is a news reporter celebrating with the clown, this shows us that this was a relevant and important issue that had happened and it was necessary for the news to report the story to the nation so that it makes people aware and interested also.Now read Source 3, saved, which is an extract from the non-fiction book. Question 3:- Explain some of the thoughts and feelings Parrado and Canessa have whilst searching for rescue. Straight away we can tell that Parrado is a positive man who is determined and is â€Å"spurred on by curiosity† and is eager to move forward and see wha t I at the end of valley whereas his companion Canessa has given up and lost all hope when Parrado encourages him to struggle on with him but he replies that he is â€Å"tired and could not go on†.As we continue to read we know learn that there is a â€Å"roaring noise which grew louder and louder† as they continued on moving. Both of these men were struck with shear fear as â€Å"panic entered the hearts of both of them† however for Parrado the panic soon turned into curiosity as he was â€Å"impatient† to find out what lay ahead. Unfortunately for Canessa he could not keep up and the panic that he had felt increased as he saw the only other being run faster and faster away from him into what he thought was danger when he said â€Å"You’ll get yourself killed! this may be perhaps he feels less optimistic and tired so has given up in being rescued and saved. When Parrado reaches the end of the valley his face was â€Å"wet with tears of joy† because he obviously felt relieved and pleased because he may have discovered a way out. After describing the sight of the â€Å"blessed valley† as â€Å"beautiful† their whole outlook on the situation changes. Their feelings change positively and a relieved by vision they are seeing. The boys feel tired of the stress and tension that was relieved as they are exhausted and rest by the river that is there.The two men feel as if they are in paradise and feel confident that they will be saved but are aware that they still have further to go and that the road that lay before them will be rough with â€Å"boulders the size of armchairs† to overcome in their fight for survival but they are both now feeling strong and confident enough to cross the river, even if though it is carrying huge boulders down with it. Now you need to refer to source 3, saved and either source 1 or 2. You are going to compare the two texts Question 4:- You are going to compare two texts, one of which you have chosen.Compare the ways in which language is used for effect in the two texts. Give some examples and analyse what the effects are. In source 3 Parrado and Cannesa were in an exhausted state as they were searching for rescue to come along and save them. They were both in pain and misery because they had run out of hope and thought that they were the only people left on the mountain. However to their surprise they heard a â€Å"roaring noise which grew louder and louder† the use of the repetition suggest that it was an unexpected menacing sound as if it was creeping up behind them.The fact that it was a â€Å"roaring sound† just adds to the effect of the mysteriousness that it creates for the reader, a sense of anticipation to see what the sound actually was. On the other hand in source 2 the reporter creates engagement with the audience and using evocative words such as â€Å"broken through†, â€Å"underground chamber† and â€Å"strand ed† at the beginning of the article to set a tone of excitement as well as sympathy and concern. The effect this has on the reader is that it makes the reader want to continue reading.In this case both sources make the audience want to continue reading by creating using enticing techniques to grab the reader’s attention. After describing the sight of the â€Å"blessed valley† as â€Å"beautiful† their whole outlook on the situation changes. Their feelings change positively and a relieved by vision they are seeing. The boys feel tired of the stress and tension that was relieved as they are exhausted and rest by the river that is there Question 5:- write an entry for your online blog which describes a time when you felt uncertain or unsure about a situation you were in and explain how you overcame it.Blog: A regular online piece of writing. There was a time in which I was unsure about a question that was asked to me when I was in primary school. Although som e people may find it funny that I have decided to talk about this. It brings up a range of emotions I felt when I was at a young age, which to be honest, I was not quite sure of myself. I felt baffled that I was all of a sudden the centre of attention. I was never use to being the person everyone watched. It felt uneasy and out of place. As if suddenly everyone’s eyes turned in menacing eagle eyes, ready to feast on their prey if I got the answer wrong.I chose to look towards the ground to avoid any eye contact as I stood up from my position to answer. Answer? Answer what? At that moment I felt completely clueless, and lost my train of thought. At that moment I wished the ground would have opened up and taken me some place I felt safe and away from the lingering looks. â€Å"Susan? † the voice said. Snapping out of my thoughts I realised I was still in that same position I was longingly hoping to get out of. The professionally dressed woman repeated her question, this time with a little more annoyance in her voice then last time. Okay Susan, time to get serious, you’ve done this before. You know what to do† I encouraged myself. A quick and silent sign escaped from my mouth as I was about to speak. â€Å"3 multiplied by 2 is 6, miss. † As soon as the words made their way out of my mouth I wanted to grab a shield and protect myself from what was about to come. â€Å"Well done† she said finally. Are my ears deceiving me? Did I really answer the question correctly? Although my face was calm and composed. Inside I felt as if a whole load of weight had just disappeared of my shoulders. As if I had be awarded with a million pounds. Sheer relief took over my body.I felt great. Question 6:- it has been said that â€Å"people who save lives or help improve lives of others are a true role models of today†. Write an article for a news paper for a newspaper in which you argue your view about what makes a good role model. As g ood role model is some who can teach you to do go things and tell you what is right and wrong. What is a role model if they cannot teach? They come in all types of backgrounds, whether it’s through music, dance or religion. I would agree that a good role model is someone who saves lives and improves lives of others. That is a great factor of a role model.Who wouldn’t want people like that living in their community, like local heroes saving people from the negativity life offers? In addition it is those people who are able to bring happiness and joy to families as well as give them hope. Some role models inspire people do great things like themselves, like brilliant dancers inspire people to get into dancing, as they hope to achieve what their role models have achieved. On the other hand others would argue that people who have done wrong don’t deserve to be role models and no longer have the right to teach and be taught valuable lessons.They do not deserve a seco nd chance to change and prove that they are worthy of being role models. They do not have a say in what society does. What about the people who haven’t necessarily been the holiest and most pleasant people to be around in the past. Once they have done badly they are forbidden to be heroes. What are they classed as then? Villains? Is this not prejudicing? You cannot judge someone on their past. Although it may be true that they may have had some ‘dirt’ in their past but their future is still ‘spotless’.If they were to give money to charity or save a child from a burning building, would it not be appreciated? In conclusion I believe role models are people who are able to do great things and expect nothing back. They do great acts because it makes them feel better about themselves as people. A sense of achievement goes through their minds, they were able to inspire people especially people at a young age because they are the future of modern society. Th ese role models are like modern day angles sent from heaven to protect the feeble and weak.We need more role models to teach people about what to avoid in life and what to hope to achieve. We thank you and are grateful for having people like you sent to earth. English Mock revision exam paper 2 Read source 1, the online travel article called rafting on the grand canyon by Elisabeth Hyde. Question 1:- What do you learn from Elisabeth Hyde’s article about where she has been and what she has been doing? From the article we learn that Elisabeth Hyde along with her husband, 3 teenage kids and 22 other people went on a trip to the Grand Canyon in early July.She mentions that there was only two rules the guide had shouted which were â€Å"stay in the boat† and the second to â€Å"stay in the boat! † At the beginning she doesn’t seem to keen and quite scared about the trip as she says â€Å"blinking at the sign before us†¦Ã¢â‚¬  almost as if she isnâ€℠¢t looking forward to her trip. She continues to talk about what the space of the boats which she says was â€Å"the tightest packing system† she had ever seen this gives us the image that it was uncomfortable and a cramped, overcrowded space because of all the amount of gear and number of people in the â€Å"6m rafts†.She also describes the prime seats as having â€Å"great views†. Elisabeth describes the trip as a â€Å"Disneyland-like experience† which states that it was a great encounter. Although it had people â€Å"plunging down†¦ into a tough wave† and a moment after the boats shooting back up and over the crest. She describes it as a â€Å"rollercoaster ride that had people screaming with the thrill of it. † This proves that she had gotten a sense of adrenaline throughout the experience, like fear and excitement placed in a box and ready to explode at any moment.By the end of the trip Elisabeth was drenched head to toe but she c ould not have cared-less because although she wouldn’t have minded a shower at that moment she had a desire to â€Å"run away and become a river guide†. This shows us that she would have gladly gone through the rollercoaster over and over just because of how great the experience left her. Now read source 2, the article and the picture which goes with it called fearsome tyrannosaurs Rex sue may have died of a sore throat.Question 2:- Explain how the headline and picture are effective and how they link to the text. The headline and image of this article introduces the main idea of the text: that this specie of dinosaur may have potentially died from â€Å"a sore throat† In some way this is considered comical because it doesn’t seem logical that a dinosaur of that size could have potentially died from â€Å"a parasite that infects pigeons† also nicknaming this massive dinosaur â€Å"sue† makes it mocking as if comparing it to a feeble human bei ng.Furthermore straight away from the heading it reads â€Å"Fearsome† which implies that it was quite a superior and scary which makes the reader want to continue reading the article to know in full detail what happened to this dinosaur. As we read on in the article it claims that they have an accurate and complete example of this â€Å"prehistoric predator† in a field museum in Chicago. The use of the alliteration emphasises the point of it being such a phenomenal creature.As we continue on Ian explains to us that this giant â€Å"65 million-year-old† dinosaur had gone through a number of things which had left her with â€Å"broken ribs†, â€Å"torn tendons† and a â€Å"damaged shoulder† and the fact that the cause of â€Å"Sue’s† death was â€Å"far more ordinary† somehow suggests disappointment because of the largeness of this creature. In the image the dinosaur looks so huge compared to the people admiring the fossi l, as if comparing an elephant to an ant. Now read source 3, Everest the hard way, which is an extract from a non-fiction book.Question 3:- Explain which parts of Pete Boardman’s story of the return to camp 6 your find tense and exciting. Straight away the reader feels tension and hints of fear because â€Å"a decision was needed† on what their plan of action was to get back to camp 6. This draws in the reader and makes the reader want to continue reading and find out what their decision was. As we read on it tells us that the he and his fellow camp mates were going the wrong direction, as time went on they felt that their â€Å"success was turning into tragedy. The use of the superlative and comparing it to the best and worst suggest that they are feeling pessimistic and are running out of hope. As we continue reading on Pete described the avalanche that was coming â€Å"channelled, straight towards† him. The use of the adjective gives sympathy for the reader because they feel as if it is inevitable for him to free himself from the danger that is about to happen. The reader is intrigued to find out more about what happens next. He overcame this as he â€Å"smashed† his axe into the ice and hung on.The powerful and emotive language makes the reader feel obligated to read on and is putting a clear image in the readers mine. â€Å"Then it stopped. † The use of this short and snappy sentence makes tension and suspension rise to see if Pete had finally reached safety. It also creates a sense of relief for the reader because they know that he is still one piece and is excited to find out more. In the finally paragraph Pete uses captivating alliteration like †flicking it free, I tumbled over a fifteen foot rock† the continuous use of the â€Å"f† sounds like exhaustion which puts emphasis on the agony and the pain they felt at the time.Now you need to refer to source 3, Everest the hard way and either source 1 o r 2. You are going to compare the two texts Question 4:- Compare the different ways in which language is used for effect in the two texts. Give some examples and analyse what the effects are. In source 3 the writer makes use of some short and snappy sentence at the very beginning of the article when he says â€Å"a decision was needed. † which creates suspension and you are able to know what he feels which makes the reader want to continue and find out what they decide to do.Whereas in Source 1 at the very beginning she mentions that there were only two rules the guide had shouted which were â€Å"stay in the boat† and the second which was to â€Å"stay in the boat! †Although it may seem comical and ironic that the guide had repeated himself. The seriousness of the repetition may have been a warning because it is dangerous and to make sure that they follow the rules. Source 1 uses a metaphor when Elisabeth says â€Å"the grand canyon s a Disneyland-like experie nce† The use of the metaphor makes the description really effective because it helps the readers emphasise with her.This gives a sense of the thrills, excitement and the ups and downs she felt on the trip. In source 3 he tells us that the he and his fellow camp mates were going the wrong direction, as time went on they felt that their â€Å"success was turning into tragedy. † The use of the superlative and comparing it to the best and worst suggest that they are feeling pessimistic and are running out of hope. In source 1 the writer uses rhetorical question in which she says â€Å"was I scared? A little. Exhilarated? More than I have ever been. The use of this makes it seem like she is interacting with the reader as though she is answering the question that they may have for her which makes the article in itself more interesting. Source 3 does this also when he uses captivating alliteration like †flicking it free, I tumbled over a fifteen foot rock† the con tinuous use of the â€Å"f† sounds like exhaustion which puts emphasis on the agony and the pain they felt at the time, which makes the reader have sympathy for him. Question 5:- Write a brief article a website of your choice telling your readers about an interesting or unusual journey or travel experience you’ve had.Explain why it was memorable. â€Å"Take a deep breath and walk up† I whispered to myself as I was about walk up to the aircraft. I didn’t understand why I was getting so stressed over something I had done a million times over, it just didn’t seem logical. But I knew. I knew there was something wrong but I didn’t know what it was. I guess that’s just me being myself. The pilot’s voice ordering us to do as we were told as he explained to us what to do and how to behave on the plane. The beautifully tall air hostesses directing us to the nearest exits and what to do in the case of an emergency with their hands as gui des.It all seemed straight forward really, everything that I had heard before so many times it was glued to my brain. I looked out the window when the engine started running to ease my thoughts. I was so nervous; meeting my family in what seemed like centuries was going to be a shock for them and for me. With all the changes that have happened, how are they going to react? All I know is for certain things are definitely not going to be the way they were before, not after my uncle’s car accident.He was sent to intensive physiotherapy because of a car crash that he was unfortunately apart of, It is the first time the family have been shaken up so badly. Time to get off. A sigh left my mouth as if I hadn’t noticed it. My mother calling me from the top of the stairs encouraging me to come on. At the top of the stairs looking down to the ground, petrified of what I was going to see. But why? He was not dead so why was I making such a fuss? It’s just the thought of ch ange which threatened me. Standing at the bottom of he air craft looking for familiar faces like a lost child looking for its mother was what we’re doing. All we see is a group of our family members just shout our names from across the road, excitement and exhilaration rushed through my body. A tear dared to leave my eye when I saw my uncle in his crutches, because although he wasn’t in the best form he had the largest smile of his face that I had ever seen him do. From that moment I knew that all those fears I felt were empty and meaningless now and this would be one of the greatest holiday I went through.