Thursday, March 5, 2020

Definition and Discussion of Enlightenment Rhetoric

Definition and Discussion of Enlightenment Rhetoric The expression  Enlightenment rhetoric refers to the study and practice of rhetoric from the mid-seventeenth century to the early part of the nineteenth century. Influential rhetorical works from this period include George Campbells Philosophy of Rhetoric, first published in 1776, and Hugh Blairs Lectures on Rhetoric and Belles Lettres, first published in 1783. George Campbell, who lived from 1719 to 1796, was a Scottish minister, theologian, and philosopher of rhetoric. Hugh Blair, who lived from 1718 to 1800, was a Scottish minister, teacher, editor, and rhetorician. Campbell and Blair are just two of the many important figures associated with the Scottish Enlightenment. As Winifred Bryan Horner notes in the Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition, Scottish rhetoric in the 18th century was broadly influential, especially in the formation of the North American composition course as well as in the development of 19th- and 20th-century rhetorical theory and pedagogy. 18th-Century Era of Enlightenment Rhetoric Essays written on rhetoric and style in the 1700s include Of Eloquence by Oliver Goldsmith and Of Simplicity and Refinement in Writing by David Hume. On Conciseness of Style in Writing and Conversation by Vicesimus Knox and Samuel Johnson on the Bugbear Style were also produced during this era. Periods of Western Rhetoric Western rhetoric can be divided into distinct categories: classical rhetoric, medieval rhetoric, Renaissance rhetoric, 19th-century rhetoric, and new rhetoric(s). Bacon and Locke Thomas P. Miller, Eighteenth-Century Rhetoric British advocates of enlightenment grudgingly accepted that while logic could inform the reason, rhetoric was necessary to rouse the will to action. As propounded in [Francis] Bacons Advancement of Learning (1605), this model of the mental faculties established the general frame of reference for efforts to define rhetoric according to the workings of the individual consciousness...Like such successors as [John] Locke, Bacon was a practicing rhetor active in the politics of his time, and his practical experience led him to recognize that rhetoric was an inevitable part of civic life. Although Lockes Essay Concerning Human Understanding (1690) criticized rhetoric for exploiting the artifices of language to promote factional divisions, Locke himself had lectured on rhetoric at Oxford in 1663, responding to the popular interest in the powers of persuasion that has overcome philosophical reservations about rhetoric in periods of political change. Overview of Rhetoric in the Enlightenment Patricia Bizzell and Bruce Herzberg, The Rhetorical Tradition: Readings From Classic Times to the Present Toward the end of the 17th century, traditional rhetoric came to be closely associated with the genres of history, poetry, and literary criticism, the so-called belles lettres - a connection that persisted well into the 19th century. Before the end of the 17th century, however, traditional rhetoric came under attack by adherents of the new science, who claimed that rhetoric obscured the truth by encouraging the use of ornamented rather than plain, direct language...The call for a plain style, taken up by church leaders and influential writers, made perspicuity, or clarity, a watchword in discussions of ideal style during the ensuing centuries. An even more profound and direct influence on rhetoric at the beginning of the 17th century was Francis Bacons theory of psychology...It was not until the middle of the 18th century, however, that a complete psychological or epistemological theory of rhetoric arose, one that focused on appealing to the mental faculties in order to persuade...the elocution movement, which focused on delivery, began early in the 18th century and lasted through the 19th. Lord Chesterfield on the Art of Speaking Lord Chesterfield (Philip Dormer Stanhope), letter to his son Let us return to oratory, or the art of speaking well; which should never be entirely out of your thoughts, since it is so useful in every part of life, and so absolutely necessary in most. A man can make no figure without it, in parliament, in the church, or in the law; and even in common conversation, a man that has acquired an easy and habitual eloquence, who speaks properly and accurately, will have a great advantage over those who speak incorrectly and inelegantly. The business of oratory, as I have told you before, is to persuade people; and you easily feel, that to please people is a great step towards persuading them. You must then, consequently, be sensible how advantageous it is for a man, who speaks in public, whether it be in parliament, in the pulpit, or at the bar (that is, in the courts of law), to please his hearers so much as to gain their attention; which he can never do without the help of oratory. It is not enough to speak the language he speaks in, in its utmost purity, and according to the rules of grammar, but he must speak it elegantly, that is, he must choose the best and most expressive words, and put them in the best order. He should likewise adorn what he says by proper metaphors, similes, and other figures of rhetoric; and he should enliven it, if he can, by quick and sprightly turns of wit. Philosophy of Rhetoric Jeffrey M. Suderman, Orthodoxy and Enlightenment: George Campbell in the Eighteenth Century Modern rhetoricians agree that [George Campbells] Philosophy of Rhetoric pointed the way to the new country, in which the study of human nature would become the foundation of the oratorical arts. A leading historian of British rhetoric has called this work the most important rhetorical text to emerge from the 18th century, and a considerable number of dissertations and articles in specialized journals have eked out the details of Campbells contribution to modern rhetorical theory. Alexander Broadie, The Scottish Enlightenment Reader One cannot go far into rhetoric without encountering the concept of a faculty of the mind, for in any rhetorical exercise the faculties of intellect, imagination, emotion (or passion), and will are exercised. It is therefore natural that George Campbell attends to them in The Philosophy of Rhetoric. These four faculties are appropriately ordered in the above way in rhetorical studies, for the orator first has an idea, whose location is the intellect. By an act of imagination, the idea is then expressed in suitable words. These words produce a response in the form of an emotion in the audience, and the emotion inclines the audience to will the acts that the orator has in mind for them. Arthur E. Walzer, George Campbell: Rhetoric in the Age of Enlightenment While scholars have attended to the 18th-century influences on Campbells work, Campbells debt to the ancient rhetoricians has received less attention. Campbell learned a great deal from the rhetorical tradition and is very much a product of it. Quintilians Institutes of Oratory is the most comprehensive embodiment of classical rhetoric ever written, and Campbell apparently regarded this work with a respect that bordered on reverence. Although the Philosophy of Rhetoric is often presented as paradigmatic of a new rhetoric, Campbell did not intend to challenge Quintilian. Quite the contrary: he sees his work as confirmation of Quintilians view, believing that the psychological insights of 18th-century empiricism would only deepen our appreciation for the classical rhetorical tradition. Lectures on Rhetoric and Belles Lettres James A. Herrick, The History and Theory of Rhetoric [Hugh] Blair defines style as the peculiar manner in which a man expresses his conceptions, by means of language. Thus, style is for Blair a very broad category of concern. Moreover, style is related to ones manner of thinking. Thus, when we are examining an authors composition, it is, in many cases, extremely difficult to separate the style from the sentiment. Blair was apparently of the opinion, then, that ones style - ones manner of linguistic expression - provided evidence of how one thought. Practical matters..are at the heart of the study of style for Blair. Rhetoric seeks to make a point persuasively. Thus, rhetorical style must attract an audience and present a case clearly. Of perspicuity, or clarity, Blair writes that there is no concern more central to style. After all, if clarity is lacking in a message, all is lost. Claiming that your subject is difficult is no excuse for lack of clarity, according to Blair: if you cant explain a difficult subject clearly, you probably dont understand it...Much of Blairs counsel to his young readers includes such reminders as any words, which do not add some importance to the meaning of a sentence, always spoil it. Winifred Bryan Horner, Eighteenth-Century Rhetoric Blairs Lectures on Rhetoric and Belles Lettres was adopted at Brown in 1783, at Yale in 1785, at Harvard in 1788, and by the end of the century was the standard text at most American colleges...Blairs concept of taste, an important doctrine of the 18th century, was adopted worldwide in the English-speaking countries. Taste was considered an inborn quality that could be improved through cultivation and study. This concept found a ready acceptance, particularly in the provinces of Scotland and North America, where improvement became a basic tenet, and beauty and good were closely connected. The study of English literature spread as rhetoric turned from a generative to an interpretive study. Finally, rhetoric and criticism became synonymous, and both became sciences with English literature as the observable physical data. Sources Bacon, Francis. Advancement of Learning. Paperback, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, September 11, 2017. Bizzell, Patricia. The Rhetorical Tradition: Readings From Classic Times to the Present. Bruce Herzberg, Second Printing Edition, Bedford/St. Martins, February 1990. Blair, Hugh. Lectures on Rhetoric and Belles Lettres, Paperback, BiblioBazaar, July 10, 2009. Broadie, Alexander. The Scottish Enlightenment Reader. Canongate Classic, Paperback, Canongate UK, June 1, 1999. Campbell, George. The Philosophy of Rhetoric, Paperback, University of Michigan Library, January 1, 1838. Goldsmith, Oliver. The Bee: A Collection of Essays. Kindle Edition, HardPress, July 10, 2018. Herrick, James A. The History and Theory of Rhetoric. 6th Edition, Routledge, September 28, 2017. Hume, David. Essay XX: of Simplicity and Refinement in Writing. Online Library of Liberty, 2019. Johnson, Samuel. The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL. D.: An essay on the life and genius of Samuel Johnson. G. Dearborn, 1837. Knox, Vicesimus. Knoxs Essays, Volume 22. J.F. Dove, 1827. Sloane, Thomas O. (Editor). Encyclopedia of Rhetoric. v. 1, Oxford University Press, August 2, 2001. Stanhope, Philip Dormer Earl of Chesterfield. Letters to His Son: On the Fine Art of Becoming a Man of the World and a Gentleman. Volume 2, M. W. Dunne, 1901. Suderman, Jeffrey M. Orthodoxy and Enlightenment: George Campbell in the Eighteenth Century. McGill-Queens Studies in the Hist of Id, 1st Edition, McGill-Queens University Press, October 16, 2001. Various. Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition. Theresa Jarnagin Enos (Editor), 1st Edition, Routledge, March 19, 2010. Various. Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition: Communication from Ancient Times to the Information Age. Theresa Jarnagin Enos (Editor), 1st Edition, Routledge, March 19, 2010. Walzer, Arthur E. George Campbell: Rhetoric in the Age of Enlightenment. Rhetoric in the Modern Era, Southern Illinois University Press, October 10, 2002.

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Quality Management and SMS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Quality Management and SMS - Essay Example development of technologies capable of identifying microbial organisms, modernization in packaging of foods and increased awareness on microbiology education to the general public. In conjunction with principles of quality control, these issues should be addressed (Besterfield, 2004). Food poisoning is a result of poor handling of food stuffs by either the customers or employees in an organization. With the rise in food poisoning in the world, food processing organizations have stipulated mechanisms to curb this menace and ensure customer safety. Suppliers are graded and assessed to determine the quality of products they deliver to the plant for processing. This is a supplier manufacturer principle, which depicts that suppliers must be trustworthy and able to deliver quality and cost effective products (Hutter, 2011). Principle of customer focus; this relates to the customer needs and wants. A customer will basically want to consume safe and healthy food. As a manager, there should be concentration on ensuring that the customer is always safe from infections. Packaging of the food is very important since it is what depicts and demonstrates how important and secure the customers feel. Consumer protection authorities also play an important role in the company; often times they come at intervals and check on the processing plants this tends to cement on the work of the operation controller (Besterfield, 2004). Process approach; a serine and performing company will opt to efficiency and effectiveness. The wastes in the company should be properly deposited to avoid breeding grounds for micro-organisms which may in turn be harmful and infectious. Take a case of a cake bakery, the bakery has to ensure that it maintains cleanliness by ensuring that any wastes that may be experienced is dumped in the right place (Hutter, 2011). Continual improvement techniques will help see the company operate in an efficient and clean environment. Machines in a food processing plant

Monday, February 3, 2020

Neighborhood Planning Annotated Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Neighborhood Planning - Annotated Bibliography Example iii. The City of Surrey has an OCP defined by goals and policies, which lead to the city’s planning operations. Surrey’s OCP offers direction for Surrey’s physical organization, management of land, transportation priorities, community growth, use of farmland, and ecological awareness.3 iv. Fraser Basic Council developed an OCP for taking action against climate change and raising awareness about the phenomenon. Local authorities approved the development of the OCP as a form of bylaw under which activities assumed by Fraser Basic Council would be consistent with the OCP.4 v. The Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development under the Government of British Columbia undertook an OCP in 2014 that its cities and regional constituencies developed.5 This OCP is a long-term reflection of the community that determines locations, sums, types, and concentration of suburban developments required by the Local Government Act  section 875. vi. The City of North Vancouver first undertook an OCP in 1980, revised it in 1992, and continued it to date. The OCP aims to balance the social, ecological, and economic requirements of the community of North Vancouver.6 Gansmo, Helen Jà ¸sok. "Municipal planning of a sustainable neighborhood: action research and stakeholder dialogue."  Building Research & Information  40, no. 4 (July 2012): 493-503.  Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost (accessed January 23, 2015). Researcher Gansmo attempts to find the most appropriate way to foster the change to greener neighborhoods. Determining whether planners can start an improved dialogue to facilitate stakeholder participation in planning, construction, and residing in greener neighborhoods.7 The article describes and implements methodical procedures that find the core contributors to greener neighborhoods and implementing the dialogue approaches in the early stages of planning for the project. Aditya, Trias.

Sunday, January 26, 2020

Construction Essays | Value Management Risk

Construction Essays | Value Management Risk Value Management Risk Rationale for Study Throughout my 4th year of the Honours Degree Quantity Surveying Programme, I found the Value and Risk Appraisal module very interesting especially the topic of Value Management. I had never really come across this topic before and only heard the term used a few times but didn’t really know what was involved. From undertaking that specific module, it seems that Value Management is mostly used as a tool to achieve Value for Money for Clients. Working for a Contractor for 4 and a half years now, I have only ever seen Value Management used on one Construction Project and this is the one that I am currently based on just now. From my experience, I feel that Value Management has a lot of advantages for Contractors as well as Clients and I wanted to find out why it is not being used to a great extent by Contractors. Get help with your essay from our expert essay writers Indicative Title Value Management: A Contractors Perspective 1.3 The Aim To determine the reasons as to why Value Management is not being greatly used by Contractors in the Construction Industry. 1.4 The Main Objectives In order to achieve the above aim the following objectives must be met: To identify the key principles and elements of Value Management. To identify techniques and working practices adopted and to identify the benefits of Value Management. Examine the reason as to why Value Management is not widely used in the Construction Industry. Critical analysis of the views of Main Contractors about the benefits or short comings of Value Management. To propose recommendations for improved implementation of Value Management for Contractors. CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW VALUE MANAGEMENT 2.1.1A Definition â€Å"Value Management is a style of management particularly dedicated to motivating people, developing skills and promoting synergies and innovation, with the aim of maximizing the overall performance of an organization.† The Institute of Value Management [online] http://www.ivm.org.uk/vm_whatis.htm Accessed on 18 July 2007. Value Management is a team based â€Å"process-driven† methodology. Its incentive is to deliver a product, service or project at â€Å"optimum whole life performance and cost without detriment to quality.† By using teams of experts in the Construction Industry, this allows the Value Management process to identify â€Å"design and construction solutions which offer the best value for money with regard to the functional requirements of the Client† Kelly, J. Male, S. (1988) A Study of Value Management and Quantity Surveying Practice Value Management plays a key role in the Construction Industry for continuous improvement and innovation. The Background Concept Value Management originated in the United States of America in the late 1940’s and the process was originally used in the manufacturing industry. This was soon adopted by the Construction Industry in the UK by the start of the 1990’s as various studies highlighted â€Å"between 36% and 45% savings on estimated construction cost to the Client† Kelly, J. Male, S. (1988) A Study of Value Management and Quantity Surveying Practice The concept of ‘Value Analysis’ was introduced by Lawrence Miles in the 1940’s. Miles, a Purchase Engineer working for the General Election, had to find ways to tackle the material shortages which was due to the Second World War. Miles sought to find alternative materials that would provide the same function. This proved effective as Miles found that many of the alternative products he was finding were of an equal, if not better quality than that originally proposed. In addition to this he found that many of these alternatives were at a lower cost. Dallas (2006) states that a short while later, people realised that not only did the technique provide a way to substitute alternative materials but it was also an excellent way to reduce costs while still maintaining the necessary functionality. This system would involve ‘value’ and ‘analysis’ and based on this Miles developed the definition of ‘Value Analysis’. â€Å"An organised approach to providing the necessary functions at the lowest cost.† Kelly, J.R. Male, S.P. Graham, D. (2004) Value Management of Construction Projects. To further enhance this Miles provides further definition: â€Å"Value Analysis is an organised approach to the identification and elimination of unnecessary cost.† Kelly, J.R. Male, S.P. Graham, D. (2004) Value Management of Construction Projects. Key Principles of Value Management The institute of Value Management states that the key principles of Value Management are different from other styles of management in that they include attributes that are not normally found together: Management Style Emphasis on teamwork and communication A focus on what things do, rather than what they are (functional approach) An atmosphere that encourages creativity and innovation A focus on customer’s requirements A requirement to evaluate options qualitatively to enable robust comparisons of option Positive Human Dynamics Teamwork – encouraging people to work together towards a common solution Satisfaction – recognizing and giving credit Communication – bringing people together by improving communication between them Fostering better common understanding and providing better group decision support Encouraging change – challenging the status quo and bringing about beneficial change Ownership – the assumption of ownership of the outcomes of Value Management activities by those responsible for implementing them Consideration of External and Internal Environment External conditions – taking account of pre-existing conditions external to the organisation over which managers may have little influence Internal conditions – within the organisation there will be existing conditions which managers may or may not be able to influence Degrees of Freedom – the external and internal conditions will dictate the limits of potential outcomes and should be quantified. Effective Use of Methods and Tools Means of achieving outcomes The Institute of Value Management [online} http://www.ivm.org.uk/vm_whatis.htm Accessed on 18 July 2007 From this we can see that Value Management brings Construction teams together and gets them to communicate more effectively with each other, this in turn will have a beneficial effect on the Project. The functionality of a Project will be more focused on being able to achieve Value for Money. Value Management Techniques Function Analysis ‘Function Analysis is a powerful technique in the identification of the principal functional requirements of a project’ Seeley, I. (1997) Quantity Surveying Practice. Second Edition. Function analysis is basically a brain storming session with all people involved in the construction project and is used to determine the main needs of a project in order to focus on alternative options that are less expensive although still achieving the functionality as required. FAST Diagrams Seeley (1997) states that the FAST (Functional Analysis System Technique) has evolved from the functional analysis approach as it establishes a hierarchy of functions in order of importance. FAST diagrams are a more effective way of showing the main important functions and needs of a project. Bolton (2002) stated that function analysis was key to success in a workshop and always uses a FAST diagram. Pasquire and Mauro (2001) cite Norton and McElligott (1995) who suggest that the use of FAST may provide more benefit in the early stages of a project but not so much in the construction phases. It is also highlighted that FAST diagramming requires experience and training on the part of the facilitator to ensure it accurately depicts the function of the project. Another constraining factor is the time required to complete FAST diagrams. Hunter, K. Kelly, J. (2006) Is One Day Enough? The Argue for Shorter VM/VE Studies. Value Management Workshops Value Management Workshops are one of the main techniques of Value Management. This will be discussed in greater detail in Chapter 2.2. Benefits of Value Management After several post-project reviews with Contractors and Consultants, Kelly Male identify various positive aspects of the Value Management process. The most significant of these are: Proof that the initial design was indeed the best Peace of mind to the owner that he was receiving good value for money Introduction to higher quality products Best up-to-date technology at least cost A clear focus on project objectives An alternative view of the design Improved project programmes Improved site management structures An opportunity for a detailed analysis of the required project Kelly, J. Male, S. (1988) A Study of Value Management and Quantity Surveying Practice. The Institute of Value Management indicates that Value Management has already been successful in achieving Value for Money for such Clients as BP, British Airways, Pfizer, Stanhope and various water and rail companies. This has resulted in the public sector adopting Value Management techniques in order to cut down construction costs and achieve better Value for Money. Benefits of Value Management according to the Institute of Value Management focus on greater communication and understanding within the Construction team but do not seem to focus on the cost benefits; Better business decisions by providing decision makers a sound basis for their choice Improved products and services to external customers by clearly understanding and giving due priority to their real needs Enhanced competitiveness by facilitating technical and organisation innovation A common value culture thus enhancing every member’s understanding of the organisation’s goals Improved internal communication and common knowledge of the main success factors for the organisation Simultaneously enhanced communication and efficiency by developing multidisciplinary and multitask teamwork Decisions which can be supported by the stakeholders The Institute of Value Management [online} http://www.ivm.org.uk/vm_whatis.htm Accessed on 18 July 2007 ‘Sir Michael Latham’s report ‘Constructing the Team’ (1994) states the benefits of Value Management and includes Value Management as a factor which is critical to the success of projects in providing the basis for improving value for money in construction.’ Hogg, K. (1999) Value Management: A Failing Opportunity? Nottingham, The Nottingham Trent University. Value Management is still not being used to a great extent in the construction industry despite the great number of benefits. ‘The reasons for the apparent hesitance of the industry to adopt Value Management on a greater scale are unclear since the benefits of Value Management appear to be widely recognised and the practice continues to be promoted at a high level.’ Hogg, K. (1999) Value Management: A Failing Opportunity? Nottingham, The Nottingham Trent University. Value Management Workshops ‘Before a VM workshop commences information has to be gathered to determine its objectives and deliverables and therefore what shape and form the workshop will take.’ Male, S. Kelly, J. et al (1998) The Value Management Benchmark: A Good Practice Framework for Clients and Practitioners Value Management Workshop Structure Kelly (1996), details the key stages involved in a Value Management Workshop; Value Management workshops are characterised by a three stage process: The Orientation and Diagnostic Phase in which the value manager prepares for the study by: meeting with the project sponsor and key players who will be involved in the study, reviewing documents, conducting interviews and briefings and preparing the agenda for the Workshop Stage. The Workshop Stage is where alternative or complementary views on the value problem are brought together through a structured team based activity facilitated by a value manager and progressed through the application of specific team based techniques. Innovative ideas are brought forward to satisfy the functional requirements identified against a backdrop of the value criteria uncovered. A workshop report will be produced including an Action Plan to ensure that value solutions and options will be implemented in the post workshop phase. The Implementation Phase in which the Action Plan is followed through by those responsible for the investigation and implementation of ideas. Kelly, J. (1996) Value Risk Appraisal Lecture Notes The International Benchmarking Study (1998) identifies the Implementation Phase as one of the key areas in which Value Management fails. At this stage the Value Management team have identified and adopted various approaches to ensure that the Value Problem is minimised as far as possible through various meetings and workshops in the previous phases. At this point an implementation strategy will be discussed with the relevant parties and if possible those involved in the implementation will be interviewed and identified in the action plan at the close of the workshop phase. Value Management Intervention Points There are three main stages of Value Management workshops and they all produce a great deal of information that is discussed between the Construction parties to find alternatives ways of constructing the building and focusing on achieving Value for Money. These stages are described on the next page. Strategic Briefing The Strategic Briefing stage deals with identifying the broad scope and purpose of the project and its important parameters. The focus is on determining the strategic needs and wants, and the role and purpose of the project for the Client. Project Brief The Project Brief translates the Strategic Brief into construction terms, specifying performance requirements for each of the elements of the project including spatial relationships and details: ‘A summary of the relevant parts of the Strategic Brief document The aim of the design. This would include priorities for project objectives The site, including details of accessibility and planning The size and configuration of activities Outline specifications of general and specific areas A cost centred budget for all aspects of the project including all elements of the construction project Servicing options and specification implications e.g. security, deliveries, access, etc.’ Kelly, J. (1996) Value Risk Appraisal Lecture Notes Outline Sketch Design The Outline Sketch Design (OSD) workshop is a value review of the initial plans, elevations, sections, specification and cost plan of the proposed building using the signed off Project Brief as a reference point. Kelly (1996) explains what should be involved in an OSD Workshop: ‘As statement of the design direction The site layout and access, identifying ground conditions and planning constraints A detailed cost plan and schedule of activities Dimensioned plans, elevations and sections An outline specification for environmental systems The risks and a risk management strategy The procurement plan The project execution plan with key milestones Performance measure.’ Kelly, J. (1996) Value Risk Appraisal Lecture Notes Benefits of Value Management Workshops This is an extract from a journal that describes the benefits from an actual Value Management workshop that took place: ‘All team members confirmed their commitment to continuous improvement. Only three did not feel that it had been as a result of the workshops. The team unanimously believed that more options had been explored within the team and all agreed to that being as a result of the workshops. A principal finding under the section of workshop effectiveness agreed to by all members of the team, was that the workshop provided a good basis for teamwork, created and atmosphere of equality, ensured open and frequent communication and focused the participants on action and achieving results. The team members that indicated team working, cultures and communications as issues prior to the workshops agreed that they had all been resolved through the facilitated workshops.’ Hunter, K. Kelly, J. (2006) Value Management Workshops and Partnering Conundrums. From this extract we can see that there is a great deal of benefits for all parties by using Value Management workshops. There are also advantages to a VM workshop if the environment is isolated, these include: It focuses the team on ‘the project’ Gestation occurs during the workshop process It commits the team Militates against partial attendance Continuity is ensured. Male, S. Kelly, J. et al (1998) The Value Management Benchmark: Research Results of an International Benchmarking Study RDT Pacific (2007) stated that there are other advantages of Value Management and Workshops. ‘Value Management consistently provides significant improvements to projects: Average capital cost savings of 14% (NSW Government Research) The forging of dedicated, synergistic project teams Auditing on the project brief and the decision making process Provision of additional functionality within existing budget allocations Development of a structured process to move projects efficiently to the next stage and ultimately completion.’ RDT Pacific [online] http://www.rdtpacific.co.nz/services/servicesportfolio/valuemanagement.shtml Accessed on 5 October 2007 From this research we can see that there is a great deal of benefits of using Value Management for all parties involved in a Construction Project. It is the intention of this research paper to find out why Value Management is not being used a great deal by Contractors and therefore this research will provide beneficial when it comes to interviewing Contractors on their views of Value Management workshops. A comparison will be made between the benefits and disadvantages of Value Management in the Research Analysis chapter in order to suggest suitable implementation of this process for Contractors. CHAPTER 3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.1 Secondary Method of Research The Secondary Research Method proposed includes investigating historic papers and publications to assess the extent to which Value Management is used in the Construction Industry. Information will be obtained from books, journals, websites and lecture notes. The Glasgow Caledonian Library will be used to obtain books. The RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) and various websites will be used to obtain journals and information on Value Management. These methods of research are being used as they are readily available. About 6 books from the Glasgow Caledonian Library were used for research and a lot of information was found, however, the negative aspect of using books is that the information may not be up to date. Lecture notes from the Value and Risk Appraisal were used for the Literature Review in order to explain the processes of Value Management. They were produced by Professor John Kelly who either wrote the notes from his own experience or took extracts from books. A great amount of information was found from the internet on Value Management and this was also used to prepare the Literature Review. Information from the internet can be up to date although the disadvantage is that it can be someone’s opinion and may not be entirely true. Journals on Value Management were found on the RICS website, Athens and also on the Construction and Building News websites. Some journal information was also taken from the Glasgow Caledonian Library. The advantage of Journals is that there was a lot of information available and people’s views are expressed which is helpful for determining any problems that exist in Value Management. This research will increase the author’s knowledge and understanding of Value Management and will also give an insight into the varying views on the subject. 3.2 Primary Method of Research The initial Primary Research Method proposed for this paper is to use actual Construction Project Case Studies in an attempt to find out how beneficial Value Management was for those projects. A few case studies were found on Projects that have used Value Management and they will be used to determine whether Value Management has been a success or not for the Project. Case Studies are useful for this research as they can be used to compare and also get people’s views on Value Management. A second Primary Research Method proposed for this paper will involve interviews with relevant Construction Industry personnel to gain their views and perspectives of Value Management in Construction Projects. Suitable candidates will be mainly Contractors who have worked with Value Management on their previous Construction Projects and also the Chairman of the IVM (Institute of Value Management) in order to achieve the objectives of this paper. The purpose of these interviews is to gain a greater insight into the Value Management process and how there can be an improved implementation for Contractors. It is important to choose the correct questions to collect data to prepare a relevant analysis. Interviews are better for communicating as you are face to face to a person and the interviewer is responsible for getting the quality of information that is required. A disadvantage of interviews however can be arranging meetings with the suitable candidates as they may not always be available when you are. To control this, contacting the interviewees at the earliest opportunity is always recommended. 3.3 Research Methodologies Rejected Having chosen the above methods for research it is important to note that alternative options such as questionnaires and electronic surveys were considered for potential sources of information. However, it was felt that these options would not provide the quality of response and feedback that the other methods would for this research. Questionnaires and electronic surveys would require time to fill in and most construction personnel would probably not have the time required to complete them or would simply disregard the emails or paper copies as they would feel it would be too time consuming. Another disadvantage of these research methods is that the questions could be interpreted the wrong way or the quality of answers could not be as good as asking someone in person. CHAPTER 4 PROGRESS TO DATE PLANNED FUTURE WORK Progress to Date At this stage, the indicative title, main aim and main objectives have been agreed. Research was undertaken throughout the summer on the topic of Value Management and the relevant materials were collected. Books, journals, case studies and website information were read and notes taken from each to form the basis for the literature review. The literature review has now been completed and also most of the information for the Date Analysis Chapter in the Final Dissertation report has been collected, such as books, journals, website information and journals. Everything required for the Dissertation Interim Report is now complete. 4.2Research Methodology The final piece of methodology to be collected will be from interviews with Construction personnel which are still to be agreed and also the interview questions need to be created. These are both due to happen at the start of the New Year and the planned interviews should take place towards the end of January 2008 at the latest. 4.3Research Analysis and Results Once the interviews have been conducted, an in depth analysis of the views will be undertaken, along with analysis of the information of other Construction personnel from the data collected via journals, case studies and books. This section will be undertaken from February 2008 4.4 Conclusions and Recommendations At this stage, it will now be time to come to a conclusion and give recommendations on how to implement Value Management for Contractors. This section will be undertaken near the end of March 2008. 4.5 Structure of the Final Dissertation Below is the structure proposed for the final Dissertation document to be submitted in April 2008. Chapter 1 – Introduction Chapter 1 introduces the rationale for study of the dissertation topic and the indicative title. It also determines the main aims and objectives, the research methodologies to be used and a structured breakdown of each chapter. Chapter 2 – Value Management Chapter 2 will focus on the background of Value Management and mainly on the key principles, techniques and advantages and disadvantages of this topic in the Construction Industry. Chapter 3 – Value Management Workshops Chapter 3 will focus on value management workshops in the Construction Industry and highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of this approach for Contractors. Chapter 4 – Value Management in Previous Construction Projects Chapter 4 will focus on case studies of previous construction projects that have used Value Management. They will be used to determine whether Value Management has been beneficial or not in the completion of the Projects. Chapter 5 – Research Analysis and Results Chapter 5 will analyse the information and feedback obtained from the interviews to be conducted. Chapter 5 will also compare the responses to identify the differences in opinion. Chapter 6 – Conclusions and Recommendations Chapter 6 will set out the conclusions that have been established with reference to previous chapter literature research and the interview feedback responses. Chapter 6 will also discuss to what extent the aim and objectives have been achieved in this research paper. The author will finally give recommendations for improved implementation of Value Management for Contractors. References This section provides a list of all references used for this research which are quoted within the paper and will also provide readers with the sources of views and opinions expressed as a follow-up or extended research on the topic. Bibliography This section will provide a list of all other references used in preparation of the paper but not directly quoted. Appendices The appendices section shall provide the reader with supplementary information to that provided within Chapters 1 to 5. Programme of Future Work Produce research questions for interviews – Start January 2008 Conduct research interviews – End January 2008 Data Analysis of interview results other research methods – February 2008 Conclusions and recommendations – End of March 2008 Final Dissertation hand in – April 2008 LIST OF REFERENCES Dallas, M.F. (2006) Value Risk Management: A Guide to Best Practice Hogg, K. (1999) Value Management: A Failing Opportunity? Nottingham, The Nottingham Trent University. Hunter, K. Kelly, J. (2006) Is One Day Enough? The Argue for Shorter VM/VE Studies. Hunter, K. Kelly, J. (2006) Value Management Workshops and Partnering Conundrums. Kelly, J. Male, S. (1988) A Study of Value Management and Quantity Surveying Practice Kelly, J. (1996) Value Risk Appraisal Lecture Notes Kelly, J.R. Male, S.P. Graham, D. (2004) Value Management of Construction Projects. Male, S. Kelly, J. et al (1998) The Value Management Benchmark: Research Results of an International Benchmarking Study RDT Pacific [online] http://www.rdtpacific.co.nz/services/servicesportfolio/valuemanagement.shtml Accessed on 5 October 2007 Seeley, I. (1997) Quantity Surveying Practice. Second Edition. The Institute of Value Management [online] http://www.ivm.org.uk/vm_whatis.htm Accessed on 18 July 2007. BIBLIOGRAPHY Adam, E. (1993) Value Management: Cost Reduction Strategies for the 1990s Dallas, M.F. (2006) Value Risk Management: A Guide to Best Practice Hogg, K. The Nottingham Trent University (1999) Value Management: A Failing Opportunity? Kelly, J. Male, S. (1988) A Study of Value Management and Quantity Surveying Practice Male, S. Kelly, J. Fernie, S. Gronqvist, M. Bowles, G. (1998) The Value Management Benchmark: A Good Practice Framework for Clients and Practitioners Male, S. Kelly, J. Fernie, S. Gronqvist, M. Bowles, G. (1998) The Value Management Benchmark: Research Results of an International Benchmarking Study Seeley, I.H. (1997) Quantity Surveying Practice The Institute of Value Management [online] http://www.ivm.org.uk/vm_whatis.htm Accessed on 18 July 2007.

Saturday, January 18, 2020

Self-Assessment Final Reflection

Is one always in the process of learning? Of course! Every experience a person has makes them grow and develop. Through these experiences, they learn new materials, and at the same time, they learn about themselves as well. Learning to write is equally alike. As a person reads and writes more and more, a person is able to grow and develop their reading and writing skills. This summer was a growing experience for all students taking the writing 100 class. Personally, I believe I have grown as a writer.At the beginning of the bridge program, my CSP class was asked to write a paper. The topic was about why we decided to choose U of M as our college of choice. Writing the paper was a breeze and I felt confident that I would get a good grade. Unfortunately, when I was handed back my paper, I realized I earned a B on the paper. However, during the period of time where my professor was checking our papers, my Writing 100 class read David Bartholame’s article, Inventing the University .The first time I read this article, I did not understand what he was talking about and what his central theme way. However, after reading the article numerous times, breaking it down, outlining it, diagraming it, and writing about it several times, I was able to understand what he wanted the readers to know; a light bulb went off in my head. I saw the mistakes I made when writing my first paper for my CSP class. My essay demonstrated my lack of knowledge of the many various activities, and events held by the university.I was stuck in my common place, talking about only what I knew instead of seeking out information in order to expand my writing capabilities. I did not look on the internet to learn of any other information I could have used in the essay. Instead, I only wrote about what I knew. I also realized that organization was a key when writing an essay.   The largest critique I had on my essay was my organizational skills. My professor took off several points for jumping f rom topic to topic.Although my organizational skills were terrible when writing that essay, I believe I have gotten much better. This is due in part to Mrs. Allen. Throughout the writing course, she constantly encouraged us to think about our organization when writing essays, journal responses, and other writing activities. I’m grateful I learned how to better organize my papers, because during the second to last week of the intensive bridge program, I was asked to write a last journal for my CSP class. This time, we interviewed our parents and were asked to write about our experiences while nterviewing them. While writing this paper, I paid close attention to my organization. I made everything flow into each other. I also made sure that my paper went in chronological order so that it was easier to read and follow. My professor took about a week to grade my paper. During this time, I was able to ponder upon my essay. I knew what my professor was looking for, and I wrote for h im. I knew that I had done my best on the essay; my organization was solid and I had a nice flow. I finally received my essay back on August 10th, receiving a 25/25.I was ecstatic when I had received my grade. This is all thanks to my Writing 100 class and the hard work that I put into the class. I’m grateful I had the opportunity to take this class and learn to develop my organizational skills. Through taking this class, my writing skills increased immensely. When I wrote my first CSP essay, I had no idea that my organization was skewed and that I could improve. In my eyes, I thought that I did not need any help and that my writing was â€Å"perfect†, or at least, close to.However, I was able to learn that I needed to improve my organization in order to succeed as a college writer. Without this course, it would have been difficult for me to adapt to the college level writing required for an English class. The assignments we were required to read and write about taugh t me about my writing; I could see where I needed improvement. My experience demonstrates that with constant reading and writing, a person is able to continue learning more about their own writing in order to improve. There is always room for improvement.

Friday, January 10, 2020

Atmosphere and Fossil Fuel Inputs Essay

1. Weather and Climate. Discuss the concept of energy/mass conservation as it pertains to the climate system. Be sure to address each component of the climate system in your example and feel free to use multiple examples if necessary to address each component. 2. Facts and Fiction. Explain the figure below. Be sure to address the three key components discussed in class as well as the overall (net) anthropogenic impacts on global warming. 3. Atmospheric Composition & Structure. Draw a diagram labeling the five atmospheric layers discussed in class as well as the ozone layer. On your diagram, list the significance of each layer. 4. Atmospheric Circulation. Calculate the residence time of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere given the figure of the carbon cycle below. You can assume that the ocean, soil, vegetation and fossil fuel inputs together make the rate. 5. Ozone. Compare and contrast the two types of ozone depletion. Be sure to discuss the cause(s) of each, the impacts of each and the location of each at a minimum.

Thursday, January 2, 2020

The Theory Of Social Control Theory - 1668 Words

Introduction History Socialization is the relationship people have to important social processes, which includes education, family and peer relations (Siegel, 2015). Proper socialization leads to conformity, while improper socialization leads to nonconformity. Both theories are traced from the Sociological Criminology. Sociological Criminology was developed by Emile Durkheim in which he thought crime had a relation to social and environmental factors. According to Siegel (2105), â€Å"Durkheim thought that crime was normal because it is virtually impossible to imagine a society in which criminal behavior is absent† (p.11). Social control is a sub theory of Social process theory. Social process theory focuses its attention on†¦show more content†¦Second is a commitment, meaning that a lack of commitment towards morels and social laws can lead to deviant behavior. Third bond that must be made is involvement. Hirschi believed that an individual who participated in posit ive activities would not have the time to commit criminal acts. The fourth and final bond that must be made is belief. When a person does not live in an area that holds the same values or when they believes the law is unfair, one tends to rebel and commit criminal acts. All individuals are potential law violators but there are ways to help lessen that potential. Individuals who are kept under control by relationships with friends, family, education and employment can help lead to a happy and healthy lifestyle. The social control theory explains the possibilities on preventing delinquency behavior. If young people have strong and positive attachments towards parents, teachers and friends, it helps them experience a happier lifestyle (Siegel, 2015). Love, care and respect youth hold for parents are quite strong, therefore they don’t want to hurt or disappoint their loved ones. The commitment to education, careers and family is also important because they have too much to lose if they get involved in criminal behaviors. Being involved in productive activities such as participating in after school programs can limit their time to engage in bad