Psychological Damage Inflicted by the Residential School System Essay

First Nations children suffered many forms of abuse at the hands of the Canadian Government (Oh, Canada) under the guise of residential schools. The purposes of the residential schools were to remove First Nations children from the influence of their families and cultures, and to inter social class them into the dominant culture (The Residential School System). This was done under the assumption that First Nations culture was lesser, to kill the Indian in the child as it was commonly said. The children were forcibly disjunct from their families to live in year-round schools where they were taught white man curriculum, with a two-month vacation time, completely separated from their Aboriginal heritage and forbidden from speaking their own languages (The Residential School System). If these rules, along with many others, were broken the punishments were severe (Oh, Canada). Residential school survivors spoke of their horrible abuse during their time at the schools, including sexual, physical and psychological (The Psychological and Intergenerational Impacts of the Indian Residential School System). The students received an inferior education, usually only taught up to grade five, training them for manual labor jobs (The Residential School System). The residential school system undermined First Nations culture and disrupted families for generations, leaving severe psychological upon in not only the survivors but also their families and the following generations (The Psychological and Intergenerational Impacts of the Indian Residential School System). Many students grew up without experiencing a family life, never gaining the fancy and knowledge necessary to raise a family of their own. The effects of the schools were far reac... ...Jonathan Dewar, and Glen Lowry. Ottawa, Ont. Aboriginal Healing Foundation, 2012. Print.Oh, Canada Cultural Survival. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2014.Brasfield, C. Residential school syndrome. BC Medical Journal. Vol 43(2), process20 01. Pp. 78-81Rita Flamand. Speaking My Truth Reflections on Reconciliation & Residential School.Ed. Shelagh Rogers, Mike DeGagn, Jonathan Dewar, and Glen Lowry. Ottawa, Ont. Aboriginal Healing Foundation, 2006. Print.The Psychological and Intergenerational Impacts of the IndianResidential School System. Indian Residential Schoolsmemorial Project. Anishinabek Nation, n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2014.The Residential School System. Indigenous Foundations. N.p.,n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2014.Walker, Julian. The Indian Residential Schools Truth andReconciliation Commission. Parliament of Canada. N.p., 11 Feb. 2009. Web. 16 Mar. 2014.

Ionic Bond :: essays research papers

When ionic solids dissolve, they divide to give their positive and negative ions that dupe up the solids. These ions become hyd pass judgments and hold up the same relative proportions when in solution and when solid. The more the solid dissolves, the more the ion&8217s concentration increases. This increase and build-up allows for the reverse reception to occur. In this phase of the chemical reaction the ions crystallise out in order for the reaction to have a greater chance of occurring. Eventually the rate of disintegration will equal the rate of crystallisation. This is the state of saturation. This can be recognised by a constant colour or constant mass.The solubility carrefour constant, Ksp is given in the following exampleKsp for AgCl is Ksp = AgClKsp for PbI2 isKsp = PbI2This gives the relationship between the ions in the saturated solution and is the maximal concentration possible without creating precipitation. In this lab, solutions of lead treat and green iodide will be mixed at a number of dilutions. The reactions will then be observed to see at which point a precipitate no long-lived occurs. Ksp will then be stated as a range of values at room temperature, and the precipitate tribulation tubes will be alter until the precipitate is dissolved so that Ksp may be observed and determined at different levels.In this try out versatile solutions of lead nitrate and potassium iodide were mixed at a number of different dilutions. done the observation of the amount &8211 or lack of precipitate make in each dilution, the mathematical relationship between the ions in a saturated dilution may be determined. This relationship is known as the solubility harvest-tide constant, or Ksp, and is defined as follows, &8220The Ksp for an ionic solid is given by the product of the concentrations of the ions, each raised to the power of the coefficients in the dissolving reaction. (Heath Chemistry). The Ksp expression gives the maximum possible concentra tion of ions in a saturated solution without causing precipitation. Based on the equation for this experiment we can conclude that the ksp expression for this experiment isKsp = PbI2The Ksp for lead iodide at 25oC is 8.5x10-9. Through the substitution of the values for each turn up tube, the trial product, or KSPtrial was obtained. A precipitate then formed in those test tubes who&8217s KSPtrial was greater than the Ksp, whereas if the KSPtrial was deliberate as being less than the Ksp, no precipitate formed.Ionic Bond essays research papers When ionic solids dissolve, they divide to give their positive and negative ions that make up the solids. These ions become hydrates and have the same relative proportions when in solution and when solid. The more the solid dissolves, the more the ion&8217s concentration increases. This increase and build-up allows for the reverse reaction to occur. In this phase of the reaction the ions crystallise out in order for the reaction to have a g reater chance of occurring. Eventually the rate of dissolving will equal the rate of crystallisation. This is the state of saturation. This can be recognised by a constant colour or constant mass.The solubility product constant, Ksp is given in the following exampleKsp for AgCl is Ksp = AgClKsp for PbI2 isKsp = PbI2This gives the relationship between the ions in the saturated solution and is the maximum concentration possible without creating precipitation. In this lab, solutions of lead nitrate and potassium iodide will be mixed at a number of dilutions. The reactions will then be observed to see at which point a precipitate no longer occurs. Ksp will then be stated as a range of values at room temperature, and the precipitate test tubes will be heated until the precipitate is dissolved so that Ksp may be observed and determined at different levels.In this experiment various solutions of lead nitrate and potassium iodide were mixed at a number of different dilutions. Through the ob servation of the amount &8211 or lack of precipitate formed in each dilution, the mathematical relationship between the ions in a saturated dilution may be determined. This relationship is known as the solubility product constant, or Ksp, and is defined as follows, &8220The Ksp for an ionic solid is given by the product of the concentrations of the ions, each raised to the power of the coefficients in the dissolving reaction. (Heath Chemistry). The Ksp expression gives the maximum possible concentration of ions in a saturated solution without causing precipitation. Based on the equation for this experiment we can conclude that the ksp expression for this experiment isKsp = PbI2The Ksp for lead iodide at 25oC is 8.5x10-9. Through the substitution of the values for each test tube, the trial product, or KSPtrial was obtained. A precipitate then formed in those test tubes who&8217s KSPtrial was greater than the Ksp, whereas if the KSPtrial was calculated as being less than the Ksp, no p recipitate formed.

Rape and Intimate Partner Abuse In The Lesbian Community Essay

In every 45 seconds, someone is sexually violated in the United States. Out of every 6 women, one has experienced an attempted rape or complete rape. Lesbians and bisexual women remain at increase risk of sexual victimization compared to heterosexual women. In order for a woman to determine the direction of her life, she must first determine her sexuality. Sexuality is a deep, integral part of any humans life. This should not be a subject of coercion or debate. The society must recognize that a woman has the right to freely pre-determine her sexuality without oppression and discrimination (Burn, 2004). Traditionally, women throughout history and culture have undertaken the role of independent, non-heterosexual, women-connected existence. Lesbianism according to ancient literature round has always existed. The practice has always been unacceptable and deviant. Lesbians are subjected to rape more often than other women. Worldwide, lesbians are subjected to verbal and physical abuse.I n most cultures, lesbianism occurs preliminary to heterosexual marriages. These facts were gathered by Faderman in 1981. Female-female romantic relationships were found in European communities since the 17th century through the early 20th century after(prenominal) studying the fiction and poetry written during this period (Burn, 2004). Today, many societies view bisexuality and quirk as a sickness. The societies deny their existence entirely. However, biologists and psychologists believe that twain are mere instances of many human variations. After successful lobbying by gay and lesbian political organizations in 1974, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) eliminated homosexuality from its list of mental disorder. The APA now takes the position that homos... ...(2010). External Barriers to Help-Seeking Encountered by Canadian Gay and Lesbian Victims of insinuate retainer Abuse An Application of the Barriers Model. Violence and Victims, Vol. 25(4), 536-552.Pinto, S. (2012 ). Intimate Partner Violence Sexual Abuse. CINHAL Nursing Guide. 1-2.Renzetti, C. M. (1996). The Poverty of Services for Battered Lesbians. Journal of gay and Lesbian Social Services, Vol. 4, pp 61-68.Tigert, L. M. (2001). The Power of Shame Lesbian battering as a Manifestation of Homophobia. Women & Therapy, Vol. 23, pp 73-85.Walters, M. L. (2011). Straighten up and Act Like a Lady A Qualitative Study of Lesbian Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence. Journal of Gay and Lesbian Social Service. Vol. 23, pp 250-270.West, C. M. (2002). Lesbian Intimate Partner Violence Prevalence and Dynamics. Journal of Lesbian Studies, Vol. 6(1), pp 121-127.

Racism - I Was Born a Middle-class, White Child Essay -- Sociology Rac

Racism and Prejudice - I Was Born a Middle-class, White Child Professors chin wagging This essay assignment was designed to equip students with an understanding of academic research, theories, and concepts on race relations and then use that as a basis from which to critically think about, analyze, and develop strategies for change, both for themselves and for the foundation around them. This student takes us back to his childhood in Smallville and re-examines with us his upbringing, race relations in his t induce, his own awareness, and ultimately his and our need for change. He does this beautifully with the use of vivid and poignant imagery, juxtaposition, and allusions. Along the way, He takes us not just to Smallville but into our own lives and minds. This story is the best I have ever read it is enlightening, inspiring, and rich. I was born a middle-class, white child. I was never self-conscious about it until now. I grew up in a small town, hick-town some have called it. Tw enty years ago, when my family first moved there, the small green sign on the south font of town read, Smallville, Elevation 1450 feet, Population 1350. In twenty years, the second number on the sign has changed little more than the first. I remember when my father utilise to take me out through the orchards to talk with the farmers, for thats what people do in Smallville. They farm. Pears, grapes, walnuts, and a few kiwis, all financed by big white banks, handsome by plump white farmers, sold by chubby white brokers, and harvested by Mexican-Americans. What a country. My chubby father markets pears and grapes. And he would take me out into flex Bengards pear orchard. And with acres and acres of pear trees all around us, he would tell me how Unc... ...a half years ago, I figured that compared to most people, I was fairly aware. Since then, the most important thing Ive learned is how much I dont know. I dont know what it is the like to go to class and be the only dark spot on w hite linen. I dont know what it is like to have to weigh mentally, physically, and spiritually to preserve a cultural identity. I dont know what it is like to fear running at night. I dont know what it is like to be feared if I run at night. I dont know what it is like to live under a cover up of stereotypes. I dont know what it is like to have people who instruct me subtly ignore me and people who sit next to me subtly repeal me. And I dont know what it is like being an ethnic minority on this college campus, this institute of higher education, this large-scale Smallville, this sheltered little world that is only fairly aware.

A Doctor In The House Essay -- essays research papers

A Doctor in the House     Henrik Ibsens character, Dr. Rank, in "A Dolls House" is an important component of the play, though he is non a lead character. Rank enhances the story in his own right as a character, but mainly serves a greater purpose as an accentuation of Noraa character. Noras relationship with Rank is equal, and perhaps it implants in Noras mind the idea that relationships should be equal. Their relationship brings up questions about social correctness and even the set necessary in a marriage. Essentially, Dr. Ranks purpose is to refine the audiences understanding of Noras character.     Dr. Ranks presence establishes the lack of communication between Nora and her husband. Nora entrusts in Dr. Rank, involving him in secrets and everyday conversation. For instance, Rank is the jump character to be let in on Noras secret plan to take Helmer on a "vacation," supposedly paid for by her father. Also, Rank refers t o Christine Linde as "a name I have often heard in this house," when Helmer is virtually unaware of Lindes existence (Ibsen 542). The quote further indicates Rank and Nora share things in which Helmer is not included. Rank is like a messenger for the couple on one occasion when Nora finds out about Helmers new job from the doctor. Nora asks Rank, "Tell me Dr. Rank--will everyone who working at the bank come under Torvald now?" (542). These conversations help to conclude that most of Noras meaningful and informative conversation is not with her own husband.     Furthermore, the doctor encourages Nora to confide in him "You can say it to ussay it, here he is," says Rank, urging Nora to do as she wishes around him (542). Nora seems to divulge her thoughts to Rank and not Helmer, relaying an in struggle in Nora to do as she wishes. She lies to Helmer about the macaroons, but hastily reveals her hidden snack to the doctor. Rank and Noras rela tionship shows Noras longing for independence from Helmer and societys rules. Even Mrs. Linde, a relatively liberated woman, feels Noras intimate relationship with the doctor is curiously inappropriate. Linde is shocked that Nora would speak with Rank about the debt behind Helmers back, to which Nora replies, "Ive got to get out of this other busine... ...ras father, and therefore subsequently, how they see Nora. Ibsen makes the hereditary flaws available in Rank in order to make the theme clear. While Ranks flaws end with his death, Noras bad traits threaten to rub-off on her children, move the line of bad heredity.     According to Helmer, Ranks dark life "accentuates the light of their marriage," but the importance of the character, Dr. Rank, is to accentuate the darkness of Noras life. Ranks life parallels Noras situation until the role reversal at the end. Throughout the play, both suffer the consequences of morally corrupt fathers Nora has he r secret debt and Rank with his illness. Ranks announcement of death also marks the end of the masquerade, literally and figuratively harangue Noras masquerade of a content marriage is over as well as the ball that are her last moments of "fun." Instead of dying when Rank dies, however, Nora is born-again as an independent woman in society. Her situation may again parallel Ranks there is perplexity associated with death as there is definite uncertainty as to Noras fate.           

Environment and Race Essay -- Sociology Racism Prejudice Essays

For many years now, environmental protection and regulation has been a moving force within societies, especially the United States, and has captured much support from many different people. The environmental movement has taken a stance against environmental degradation, depletion of natural resources, destruction of incomparable habitats, and the harming of endangered and non-endangered species. Emphasis on environmental quality has undoubtedly turned society a petty greener and has made ones quality of sustenance a little better. However, not all areas of society have reaped the benefits of the environmental movement, a fact that may have to do with those populations being a little browner.Despite efforts made to raise environmental standards, many in society, particularly minorities and low-income residents who live in urban areas, find themselves inhabiting areas where environmental quality is either unattended or abused, and problems are prevalent. This is a problem of envir onmental injustice. The right to equal environmental quality should be extended to all members of society. Environmental justice is strategic because it ensures that all citizens, no matter their ethnicity, income level, or other defining characteristics, receive fair and equal environmental quality. More importantly, it potentially combats the issue of environmental involvement that could arise between opposing sides (those affected, as well as surrounding industries and the government). For example, the construction of additional hazardous waste facilities in a poor nonage community would be a potential conflict. Environmental justice is a fairly new concept within the environmental arena (its origins can be traced back to the early twentieth century. It is c... ...e is green. ReferencesBaar, E., Greenbaum, A., & Wellington, A. (1995). social Conflict and Environmental Law Ethics, Economics and justice Volume I. Toronto Captus Press.Glickman, T. & Hersh, R. (1995). Evaluating Environmental Equity The Impacts of Industrial Hazards on Selected Social Groups in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Washington, D. C. Resources for the Future.Have, S. (1976). Environment and Equity A Survey of Metropolitan Issues. Washington, D. C. The Potomac Institute, Inc.Hersh, R. (1995). Race and Industrial Hazards An Historical Geography of the Pittsburgh Region, 1900-1990. Washington, D. C. Resources for the Future.Hurley, A. (1995). Environmental Inequalities. North Carolina The University of North Carolina Press.Mandelker, D. (1981). Environment and Equity A Regulatory Challenge. St. Louis McGraw-Hill, Inc.

Environment and Race Essay -- Sociology Racism Prejudice Essays

For many years now, environmental protection and regulation has been a moving ferocity within societies, especially the United States, and has captured much support from many different people. The environmental movement has taken a stance against environmental degradation, depletion of natural resources, remainder of precious habitats, and the harming of endangered and non-endangered species. Emphasis on environmental reference has undoubtedly turned society a little greener and has made ones quality of life a little better. However, not all areas of society have reaped the benefits of the environmental movement, a fact that may have to do with those populations being a little browner.Despite efforts made to raise environmental standards, many in society, particularly minorities and low-income residents who live in urban areas, find themselves inhabiting areas where environmental quality is either neglected or abused, and problems are prevalent. This is a problem of environmental in judge. The right to equal environmental quality should be extended to all members of society. milieual justice is important because it ensures that all citizens, no matter their ethnicity, income level, or other defining characteristics, receive fair and equal environmental quality. More importantly, it potentially combats the issue of environmental conflict that could arise between opposing sides (those affected, as well as surrounding industries and the government). For example, the construction of additional hazardous waste facilities in a light minority community would be a potential conflict. Environmental justice is a fairly new concept within the environmental arena (its origins contribute be traced back to the early twentieth century. It is c... ...e is green. ReferencesBaar, E., Greenbaum, A., & Wellington, A. (1995). Social Conflict and Environmental Law Ethics, Economics and Equity Volume I. Toronto Captus Press.Glickman, T. & Hersh, R. (1995). Evaluating Environm ental Equity The Impacts of Industrial Hazards on Selected Social Groups in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Washington, D. C. Resources for the Future.Have, S. (1976). Environment and Equity A Survey of Metropolitan Issues. Washington, D. C. The Potomac Institute, Inc.Hersh, R. (1995). Race and Industrial Hazards An Historical Geography of the Pittsburgh Region, 1900-1990. Washington, D. C. Resources for the Future.Hurley, A. (1995). Environmental Inequalities. North Carolina The University of North Carolina Press.Mandelker, D. (1981). Environment and Equity A Regulatory Challenge. St. Louis McGraw-Hill, Inc.

How to Stop Worrying and Start Living – Book Review

Notes on Author Dale Breckenridge Carnegie (November 24, 1888 November 1, 1955) was an American writer, lecturer, and the developer of famous courses in self-improvement, salesmanship, corporate training, public speaking, and interpersonal skills. About the Book The book is a compilation of Dale Carnegie and his students experiences in facing the problems and how they break come out of the depression by conquering worry. He tells us how and why to not worry about criticism, six shipway to prevent fatigue and worry from keeping your energy levels.He also includes few experiences of some inspiring personalities. In this book Carnegie discusses how to analyze your worries and how to solve problems without worry. He discusses the negative effects of worry to your health and your success. He teaches how to break the worry habit, seven ways to cultivate a mental attitude that can play you peace and happiness and a perfect way to conquer worry. This book is very readable and well organi zed. It is written so that even a school-going put one across could easily understand it.This book has suggestions at the end of each chapter summarizing the material and telling the reader how to apply it. It gives simple ideas which can make a fight in our lives. It has good, positive and powerful ideas which help us to overcome the difficulties and face the problems boldly. What I learnt from the book If you want to avoid worry live in sidereal day tight compartments. When our mind is occupied with work, we wont have time to worry. It applies not only to worry, but to all kinds of negative thoughts as well.We will greatly decrease their influence if we are busy doing some intimacy constructive. We should know how to analyze and solve worry problems. We can do that by finding and collecting all the facts, analyzing those facts, make a decision, and act on it. Count your blessings, not your troubles. If we want to be quick, we should focus on all the things that work well i n our life and stymie the other things that dont. One of the best ways to increase your productivity is to take rest regularly. Take rest before you feel tired.Doing this simple thing will energize yourself throughout the day and enable you to accomplish more. One of the best teachers is your own experience. You can learn from it by taking notes of the fool things you have done and criticize yourself. If you constantly do this, you will constantly improve yourself. We should not worry about what other people say about whether or not we have done our best. Once we have done our best, we can be happy no matter what people say. Often we arent happy because we try to change things we cant change. We should learn to identify those things and accept them.

Christina Rossetti Essay

Christina Rossetti was the youngest of four children Mother- Gabriele Rossetti, an Italian patriot who came to London in 1824. She had one sister, Maria, and two brothers, Dante Gabriel and William. Brought up as religious Anglo-Catholics. Christinas elder sister Maria eventually became an Anglican nun. In 1848 she became engaged to James Collinson, a member of her brothers Pre-Raphaelite circle. (broke it wrap up when he became a Roman Catholic. Next she fell in love with Charles Cayley ( she broke it off because of religious differences. Her brother William said She enquired into his creed and found he was not a Christian. Rossettis definition of Christianity was narrower and more evangelical than most peoples. Like m whatsoever unmarried middle-class women of that period, Rossetti did not give any paid employment, except for about a year when she and her mother tried to run a day school after failing health and seeing forced her father to retire in 1853. Christina Rosset tis family was very important to her. Although she loved two different men, and it is clear from her poetry that she could express feelings of love and the heartbreak of losing love, she never married or broke away from home. Her brothers and sister were central to her emotions and she was deeply upset by Dante Gabriels nervous breakdown in 1872. He died in 1882 she lived as a recluse at home, concentrating on her religious life. After a period of ill health Christina Rossetti died of cancer on 29 December 1894.Her Poetry Poetry inspired by her religion. Many poems, such as When I am Dead, My Dearest, Remember and Up-Hill, are concerned with the nearness of oddment and the renunciation of earthly love. Her love of God is passionately expressed in Long Barren, and her poem In the Bleak Mid- Winter is well known as a Christmas carol. Also a poet who demonstrates in her drop dead, a love of nature. Another Spring and Spring Quiet show an exactness of observation which her Pre-Rap haelite brothers would have undoubtedly appreciated. Her poem A Birthday is a rapturous expression of delight in love. She also shows a malicious appreciation of sisterly jealousies in her poem Two Noble Sisters. Among her works is Sing-Song, A Nursery Rhyme Book, published in 1872, which contains lyrics for young children. Many people consider that her best work is Goblin Market (1862), the longest of her poems. Because goblins sound as if they belong in a fairy figment, it is often put in collections for young children. However, it is really a short epic poem for adults. The most obvious quality of the writing is the exactness and sensuousness of her verbal descriptions of the fruit sold by the goblins.Comparisons to Other poets The nearest comparison in English poetry to this must be the description of the feast in Keats The Eve of St Agnes. The most striking thing about the subject matter is its eeriness. rough people have seen this poem as an allegory, in which the fruit s offered by the goblins stand for the pleasures of the world, though according to Christinas brother William she denied that it was anything more than a fairy story. However, many modern readers may make a connection with the temptations and effects of narcotic drugs. This may not be a connection that Rossetti intended, but the description of Laura yielding to temptation and her subsequent illness would have been familiar to such families as the Bronts, whose brother Branwell died of an addiction to drink and drugs, and to Coleridge, who suffered from a lifelong addiction to opium.

Quality of Life in Nigeria

The term persona of life (QOL) refers to the general well-being of individuals and societies. The term is used in a wide range of contexts, including the fields of international development, healthcare, and politics. Warren Buffett, probably the worlds most successful investor, has said that anything good that happened to him could be traced prat to the fact that he was born in the right country, the United States, at the right time (1930). None of us has a say in where he is born, further we screw do something about it for our children.I in that locationfore wish to discuss each factor associated with quality of life as related to Nigeria and plead for suggestions from e truly of us on how to purify on them so as to marque this country a good place for us to live * Material upbeat as measured by GDP per head The gross domestic overlap (GDP) or gross domestic income (GDI) is one of the measures of national income and output. GDP can be defined in three ways, which should g ive identical results. First, it is equal to the total expenditures for tout ensemble final goods and services produced within the country in a specified period of time (usually a 365-day year).Second, it is equal to the sum of the value added at every stage of production by all the industries, plus taxes and negative subsidies on products. Third, it is equal to the sum of the income generated by production like compensation of employees, taxes on production and imports little subsidies, and gross operating surplus. The gross domestic product (GDP) measures of national income and output for a given countrys economy. The gross domestic product (GDP) is equal to the total expenditures for all final goods and services produced within the country in a stipulated period of time.The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Nigeria was worth 243. 98 billion US dollars in 2011. The GDP value of Nigeria re haves 0. 39 percent of the world economy. GDP in Nigeria is reported by the World Bank. His torically, from 1961 until 2011, Nigeria GDP averaged 50. 07 USD Billion reaching an all time high of 243. 98 USD Billion in December of 2011 and a record low of 4. 40 USD Billion in December of 1961. This is low as compared to 14. 99 USD Trillion of United States in 2011. * animation expectancy at birthLife expectancy at birth indicates the number of years a newborn infant would live if prevailing patterns of deathrate at the time of its birth were to stay the same throughout its life. In otherwise terminology, it contains the average number of years to be lived by a gathering of mountain born in the same year, if mortality at each age remains constant in the future. The entry includes total population as well as the male and female person components. Life expectancy at birth is also a measure of overall quality of life in a country and summarizes the mortality at all ages.It can also be thought of as indicating the potential return on investment in human capital and is necess ary for the calculation of various actuarial measures. It is estimated to be 52. 05 years for total population, 48. 95 years for male and 55. 53 years for female (2012 estimates) in Nigeria. This is low as compared to 78 years in Qatar for example. * The quality of family life, based primarily on divorce rates Family quality of life refers to the period to which families needs are met, family members enjoy their life together, and family members consent a chance to do the things that are important to them.The five domains of family quality of life are delirious well-being, parenting, family interaction, physical/material well-being, and disability-related support. * The state of semipolitical freedom Political freedom is described as a relationship free of oppression or irresistible impulse the absence of disabling conditions for an individual and the fulfillment of enabling conditions or the absence of lived conditions of compulsion, e. g. economic compulsion, in a society. It can also refer to the positive purpose of rights, capacities and possibilities for action, and the exercise of social or group rights.The concept can also include freedom from internal constraints on political action or idiom (e. g. social conformity, consistency, or inauthentic behaviour. ). The concept of political freedom is closely connected with the concepts of civil liberties and human rights, which in democratic societies are usually afforded effectual protection from the state. * Job hostage (measured by the unemployment rate) Job security is the probability that an individual impart keep his or her mull over a job with a high level of job security is much(prenominal) that a person with the job would have a small chance of becoming unemployed.Job security is seeent on economy, prevailing business conditions, and the individuals personal skills. It has been found that people have more than job security in times of economic expansion and less in times of a recession . Also, some laws (such as the U. S. Civil Rights Act of 1964) bolster job security by fashioning it illegal to fire employees for accepted reasons. Unemployment rate is a good indicator of job security and the state of the economy and is tracked by economists, government officials, and banks.Typically, government jobs and jobs in education, healthcare and law enforcement are considered very secure while private sector jobs are generally believed to unfold lower job security and it usually varies by industry, location, trading and other factors. Personal factors such as education, work experience, job functional area, work industry, work location, etc. , play an important role in find out the need for an individuals services, and impacts their personal job security.Since job security depends on having the necessary skills and experience that are in demand by employers, which in turn depend on the prevailing economic condition and business environment, individuals whose service s are in demand by employers will tend to enjoy higher job security. To some extent, job security also varies by employment laws of each country. A worker in Continental Europe, if asked about his job security, would reply by naming the type of statutory employment contract he has, ranging from temporary (no job security) to indefinite (virtually equivalent to tenure n US universities but across the unit economy). However, peoples job security eventually depends on whether they are employable or not, and if businesses have a need for their skills or not, so although employment laws can offer some relief and hedge from unemployment risk, they only have a marginal contribution to job security of individuals. Fact is, individuals need to have the right skill set to have good job security. * Climate (measured by two variables the average deviation of minimum and maximum monthly temperatures from 14 degrees Celsius and the number of months in the year with less than 30mm rainfall)Climat e change poses a wide range of risks to population health risks that will increase in future decades, often to tiny levels, if global mood change continues on its current trajectory. The three main categories of health risks include (i) direct-acting effects (e. g. due to heat waves, amplified air pollution, and physical put up disasters), (ii) impacts mediated via climate-related changes in ecological systems and relationships (e. g. rop yields, mosquito ecology, marine productivity), and (iii) the more diffuse ( validating) consequences relating to impoverishment, displacement, resource conflicts (e. g. water), and post-disaster mental health problems. Climate change thus threatens to slow, halt or regress international progress towards reducing child under-nutrition, deaths from diarrheal diseases and the spread of other pathogenic diseases. Climate change acts predominantly by exacerbating the compriseing, often enormous, health problems, especially in the poorer parts of the world.Current variations in weather conditions already have some(prenominal) adverse impacts on the health of poor people in development nations, and these too are likely to be multiplied by the added stresses of climate change. A changing climate thus affects the prerequisites of population health clean air and water, suitable food, natural constraints on infectious disease agents, and the adequacy and security of shelter. A w offshooter and more variable climate leads to higher levels of some air pollutants and more frequent extreme weather events.It increases the rates and ranges of transmission of infectious diseases through unclean water and contaminated food, and by affecting vector organisms (such as mosquitoes) and ordinary or reservoir host species that harbour the infectious agent (such as cattle, bats and rodents). Changes in temperature, rainfall and seasonality compromise agricultural production in many regions, including some of the least developed countries, thus jeopardising child health and growth and the overall health and functional capacity of adults.As warming proceeds, the severity (and perhaps frequency) of weather-related disasters will increase and appears to have done so in a number of regions of the world over the past several decades. Therefore, in summary, global warming, together with ensuant changes in food and water supplies, can indirectly cause increases in a range of adverse health outcomes, including malnutrition, diarrhea, injuries, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and water-borne and insect-transmitted diseases.Health equity and climate change have a major impact on human health and quality of life, and are interlinked in a number of ways. The report of the WHO commission on Social Determinants of Health points out that disadvantaged communities are likely to shoulder a disproportionate share of the burden of climate change because of their change magnitude exposure and vulnerability to health threats. Over 90 percent of malaria and diarrhea deaths are borne by children aged 5 years or younger, mostly in developing countries.Other severely affected population groups include women, the elderly and people living in small island developing states and other coastal regions, mega-cities or mountainous areas. Climate change can lead to dramatic increases in prevalence of a variety of infectious diseases. Beginning in the mid-70s, there has been an emergence, resurgence and redistribution of infectious diseases. Reasons for this are likely multicausal, dependent on a variety of social, environmental and climatic factors, however, many argue that the volatility of infectious disease may be one of the earliest biological expressions of climate nstability. Though many infectious diseases are affected by changes in climate, vector-borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever and leishmaniasis, present the strongest causal relationship. Malaria in particular, which kills approximately 300 ,000 children annually, poses the most imminent threat. Often it is argued that Africa need not care about climate change because in global dimensions Africa itself produces negligible greenhouse gases. Climate change is primarily caused by the developed countries, so they should be the ones dealing with it.However, it is the bitter irony of destiny that Africa contributes least of all the continents to the climate change, but will probably suffer most from its consequences. According to economists it is a typical case of negative external effects, an externalisation of costs A noninvolved party bears the costs of a ordinal partys actions. As Africa is exposed to a number of resource-consuming stressors (ranging from HIV to corruption to permanent crises and conflicts), comparatively few resources remain to react proactively on the climate change.Seeing the climate change as an external shock to the continent caused by the externalisation of costs of a third party, wagesments and assistance can be considered to be a reasonable way to compensate Africa for the negative climate effects. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that the speedy onset of climate change is subsiding. Even if we miraculously managed to stop all greenhouse gas emissions, we would still be faced with the potentially irreversible changes we have already brought.Thus, it is essential that we adapt to these changing conditions. Our response will be both reactive and anticipatory and will need to take place at many levels (legislative, engineering and personal-behaviour). In response to malaria we will need to, for example, improve the quality and accessibility of health services, identify and target response towards vulnerable populations, improve our modelling and surveillance capacity, and implement broad-based public education campaigns. Personal physical security ratings (based primarily on recorded homicide rates and ratings for risk from crime and terrorism) somatogenic securit y is primarily concerned with restricting physical access by unauthorized people (commonly interpreted as intruders) to reign overled facilities, although there are other considerations and situations in which physical security measures are valuable (for example, limiting access within a facility and/or to specific assets, and environmental controls to turn out physical incidents such as fires and floods).Security inevitably incurs costs and, in reality, it can never be perfect or complete in other words, security can reduce but cannot entirely eliminate risks. Given that controls are imperfect, strong physical security applies the principle of defense in depth using appropriate combinations of cooccur and complementary controls. Physical security is not uniquely human. The practice of actively defending a territory against intruders or opponents is very common in the carnal kingdom. Physical security is also not a modern phenomenon. The technology is continually evolving along with the threats.Physical security controls that were considered adequate in the past tend to be insecure today due to advances in the knowledge and capabilities of attackers. The goal of physical security is to convince potential attackers that the likely costs of attack exceeds the value of making the attack, e. g. that consequences of a failed attack may well exceed the gain. The combination of layered security features establishes the presence of territoriality. The initial layer of security for a campus, building, office, or other physical space uses crime prevention through environmental design to deter threats.Some of the most common examples are also the most basic admonishment signs or window stickers, fences, vehicle barriers, vehicle height-restrictors, restricted access points, security lighting and trenches. However, even passive things like hedgerows may be sufficient in some circumstances. * Quality of biotic community life (based on membership in social organisati ons) The community life of a set of people is based on their culture. Community life is almost the same with culture of the people and this entails activities within the regulation and scope of culture which morality also takes cognizance of.The number and kinds of people in a community have a great influence on type of community/social living, and this is where the traditions of such people have a great role to play. Traditions are the customs, practices, bits of legend and folklore and legends go a long way in establishing the community life, that tangible quality which makes it different in biography from other communities in the same circumstances. Similarly, people in a community share legends and bits of folklore and this common heritage from the past gives people a sense of community solidarity. Governance (measured by ratings for corruption) There are various reasons why the situation has come to this dangerous abyss but when compared to other societies, it is obvious that Nigeria lack a home grown ruling class that in addition to everything else should set the direction of the nation by detailing set objectives and the steps and aims necessary to action desired goals. What obtains today is the governance of Nigeria by a political structure whose main objective is to take and plunder the land without giving back anything to the country.According to the oxford side of meat dictionary governance mean to rule over, be in power over, exercise control over and hold sway over. In other words governance is a form of dictatorship. As it applies to Nigeria, governance is a peculiar form of dictatorship presently exercising a domineering paralytic control and power over the Nigerian people. A few group of people and their families have decided to hold power over everyone else in Nigeria since the British dictatorship handed over power to them in 1960.These few individuals also inherited the same principle of divide and rule as well as the indirect rule syste m which foster tribalism, ethnicism, disunity and other by products including lack of peace, injustice, unfairness, bribery, corruption 419inism to just name a few of sowed and grown social environment that exist in Nigeria today. Todays political structure takes origin right from the post colonial days and in the South Nigeria for example the NCNC and Action multitude recognized and recruited sworn loyalists who were distributed to each ethnic clan/zones who in turn recruited from villages and wards.When these parties are in the seat of government political looting is transmitted down and during election these recruits manage the result of the election to favour the looting political structure. In the North until recently when few changes has begun to occur in the middle overhead the Emirs and village heads continued from where they stopped with the British. Nothing in that inherited structure has changed. The various military interludes in government did not affect the structure but merely substituted traditional rulers in place of the party loyalists.However where the previous immediate post colonial governors did manage to provide some public amenities these present political structure have only one objective and that is filling their pockets with the Shell distributed irrelevant exchange and to set up family dynasties of their own. In addition to this political structure is the state machinery, a fearsome, lethal and ruthless organ that has a mind of its own that is almost alien to this world. They provide the muscle for the political structure. whence there are the activities of CIA and FBI.It is no secret that every man who has strategic position in the government of Nigeria both in the executive and political arm has a CIA or Scotland Yard or Mossad agent as confidante and as a friend. Recent figures quoted by the Swedish information on countries show that there are 65 international agencies operating in Nigeria that have no economic or social rele vance and that these figures do not include the security agencies or the activities of Israel, Arabs and the Palestinians that parasite on Nigeria.The bottom line is that the brain box and factors that programme the existing political and administrative structure of Nigeria are in foreign hands. There is urgent need for a ruling class that will effect change to halt the present state of affairs and to make Nigeria a place to benefit her people now and generation to come. * Gender equivalence (measured by the share of seats in parliament held by women) Gender equality implies that men and women should receive equal treatment unless there is a sound biological reason for different treatment.The concept based on the United Nations resoluteness of Human Rights, and the ultimate aim is to provide equality in law and equality in social situations, especially in democratic activities and securing equal pay for equal work and for example Equal Rights Amendment in United States. Significan t gender gaps in education, economic empowerment and political confederation remain in Nigeria. While progress towards parity in primary school education has been made, there remains a significant wage and labour force participation gender gap.Discriminatory laws and practices, violence against women and gender stereotypes hinder greater progress towards gender equality. Nigeria has a particularly high maternal mortality rate and women access to quality health care is limited, particularly in rural areas Nigeria has a National Gender Policy which focuses on women empowerment while also making a commitment to eliminate discriminatory practices which are harmful to women.The 1999 paper of Nigeria prohibits discrimination on the grounds of gender, but customary and religious laws continue to restrict womens rights. As Nigeria is a federal republic, each state has the authority to draft its own legislation. However, any law which is contradictory to Federal Law or the Constitution can be challenged in a Federal Court and cannot subsist. The combination of federation and a tripartite system of civil, customary and religious law makes it very difficult to harmonise legislation and remove discriminatory measures.Moreover, certain states in the north follow Islamic (Sharia) law, although not exclusively and only in instances where Muslims make use of Islamic courts. Adherence to Islamic law reinforces customs that are unfavourable to women, including those relating to freedom of movement, and to marriage and inheritance. As of 2006, the Abolition of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women in Nigeria and other Related Matters Bill was under consideration it is unclear whether this has been promulgated into law.Nigeria ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women in 1985, and the nonmandatory Protocol in 2004. The country ratified the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights on the Rights of Women in Afr ica in 2005. Nigerias Human tuition Index score for 2011 is 0. 459, placing it in 156th place (out of a total of 187 countries). Nigeria is ranked 120th in the 2011 Global Gender Gap Index (out of 135 countries), with a score of 0. 6011.

Historical Development Of The ECCE Sector In Ireland Essay

As part of this assignment I pass on write ab kayoed the historical breedings of the earliest squirtishness C atomic bet 18 and fostering (ECCE) sector in Ireland, History of ECCE provision in Ireland Pre- enlighten gentility did not really exist in Ireland unconnected from a a couple of(prenominal) exceptions until the 1980s and 1990s. This was largely due to the fact that until quite recently the majority of Irish women did not work outside the home. Even if they did the child cargon was usually appendd by family members or childminders located in the community k right awayn to the family. Irish policy discour termd women from functional outside the home.The marriage bar meant that women on the job(p) in the common attend had to leave their jobs as soon as they go married and be have it away stay at home mothers and wives. This ban was elevate in 1957 for principal(a) school teachers, but it was 1973 before the ban was lifted for other women in the public porti on. Until resent twelvemonths in Ireland, very few mothers worked outside the home. in that respectfore , there was little focus on pre-school education in Ireland until the late 1980s and 1990s Most of the progress in the plain of pre-school education in Ireland has come from the privet rather than public sector.Outside the state funded primary school system, investment in pre-school provision was traditionally targeted to mount children in need of item interventions, including educational disadvantage and children with special unavoidably. The ECEC needs of babies, young children and their families were met instead by a broad clutch of community, military volunteer and private enterprise. ECCE service provision was unregulated until 1997. When the Child take (Pre-School) Regulations 2006 came into effect, no stipulation was made regarding qualifications necessary to deliver much(prenominal) service, especially those provided by community andvoluntary sector relied heavily on volunteer cater. Even in the private sector, salaries were low and conditions of employment poor.Opportunities for employment in state-funded service were very limited excluding primary teachers in baby classes and similarly characterised by low status and low wage. Working in childc atomic exit 18 was not generally viewed as a desirable choice. iodin important initiative came from the public sector in 1969, with the surfaceing of a state process pre-school in Ruthland Street Dublin.The surgical incision of gentility worked with Van sneer Foundation an organisation that promotes the early education of children living ineconomically disadvant elderly aras. Together they beat up the pre-school in Ruthland Street as a template for other such pre-schools around the country. These pre-schools were k flatn as Early Start pre-schools. A total of 40 pre-schools opened nationally all of which are still open today. The repulse of these pre-schools is to combat the effects of economic and social disadvantage on educational achievement. This is archived by giving children a fair initiation to their education. In 1992 Ireland ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This helpered to bring public consciousness the rights of children.And in 2000, the Department of Health and Children published the National Childrens Strategy. This specify out ten- course of studys plan for improvement of childrens lives in Ireland . The strategy document stated that its vision was for An Ireland where children are respected young citizens with valued contribution to chafe and a voice of their own , where all children are cherished and subscribe to by family and the wider society where they enjoy a fulfilling childhood and realise their potential. (DoHC 2000 10 ). matchless of the goals of the National Childrens Strategy is that children will receive qualitysupports and function to promote all aspects of their development (DoHC 200030) The strategy aims to fulfil this by providing quality child vexation services and family friendly employment measures. National Forum on Early Childhood Education (1998) The National Forum on Early Childhood Education was complete in 1998 by then Minister for Education and Science, Micheal Martin. The forum brought together organisations and individuals with an interest in early childhood education , and in this elan it created a think thank from which a number of very worthwhile initiatives came one being the uninfected Paperon Early Childhood Education , Ready to Learn (DES 1999 ). National Voluntary Childcare Collaborative (1999)The National Voluntary Childcare Collaborative (NVCC) was first established in 1999 which today comprises of sevensome national non government agencies dedicated to the promotion of ECEC in Ireland. While the organisations involved are non-governmental, the NVCC kindle receive government funding. The seven organisations involved in the NVCC are Barnard os Childminding Ireland Children in Hospital Ireland Forbairt Naionrai Teo Early Childhood Ireland Irish Steiner Kindergarten Association.St Nicholas Montessori Society of Ireland White Paper on Early Childhood Education, Ready to Learn (1999) The purpose of this White Paper was to set out government policy on all issues relating to early childhood education. Quality of provision was the key theme of the White Paper. It treasure that while there was much quality provision in the ECCE sector, there was too a need to standardise provision. These findings led at present to the Child Care Pre- School Regulations (DoHC 2006) Siolta (CECDE 2006) and Aister (NCCA2009). All terce of these initiatives are concerned with standardisation and quality of provision.Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education (2002) The Centre for Early Childhood Development and Education (CECDE) was established by Dublin Institute of Technology and St Patricks College, Drumcondra . It was launched by the Minister for Education and Science in 2002. CECDE aimed to achieve the goals set out in Ready to Learn (1999) . The organisation was disbanded in 2008, when it was seen by government to afford achieved every(prenominal)thing it was set up to do. Among other things, CECDE produced Irelands first quality framework authorize Siolta . The National Quality role model for Early Childhood Education (2006).Child Care (Pre-School) Regulations 2006 Child Care (Pre-School serve) (no2) Regulations 2006 was produced by the Department of Health and Children. This document set out pre-school regulations and put statutory basis ECEC services provision in Ireland. The regulations clearly list all the requirements that must be met by organisations or individuals providing ECCE services to children aged 0-6. The regulations cover such issues as first aid, management, staff child ratios, behaviour management, fire safety measures, premises and facilities, heating, ventilation, lighting, facili ties for rest and play.Fulfilment of the requirement of these regulations doubtless put much work and expense on ECEC providers , particularly those providing services from premises that were not purpose built. However many people believe these regulations have do more than any other initiative for the improvement of ECEC services for children. This is because they are on a statutory footing and they enforced by HSE inspectors. Siolta The Department of Education and skills published Siolta The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education in 2006.The Siolta framework was developed by CECDE in a carry out that took over three years and involved 50 different organisations representing childcare workers , teachers , parents , policymakers and researchers. Siolta aims to define , assess and support the improvement of quality across all aspects of come in ECEC settings that cater for children aged 0-6. Settings covered by Siolta include full- and part-time day care, childm inding services and sessional services e. g. Montessori classrooms and infant classes in primary schools. The inclusion of infant classes in primary schools represented a new departure for ECEC in Ireland.Up until the publication of Siolta (and Aistear in 2009) , pre-school and primary school children were treated very differently. It is now understood that children aged 0-6 require a developmental-based (as opposed to subject based) curriculum regardless of whether the child is in pre-school or primary school. Since December 2008 after CECDE was disbanded, the Early Years Education Policy Unit in the Department of Education and Skills has been responsible for the implementation of Siolta. Aistear (2009) Up until recent years, the curriculum quest aftered by pre-school settings was largely undirected and unregulated.This has inevitably resulted in variation in the quality of the curriculum provided by settings. In 1999, the NCCA published the direct School Curriculum, which did direct and regulate the curriculum followed in infant class. However, in 2004 the OECD conducted its Thematic Review of Early Childhood Education and Care Policy in Ireland. This review found that education provided in infant classes in primary schools in Ireland was too directive and formal (OECD 200458). In 2009, the NCCA published Aistear The Early Childhood Curriculum Framework. The ultimate aim of Aistear is the development of the unanimous child.This is in contrast with theprevious Primary School Curriculum, which was more subject based. Infant classes in primary schools must now follow the Aistear curriculum. This is a abundant departure for ECEC in Ireland. For years, S cannisterdinavian countries have been using curriculum similar to Aistear and it is now understood that introducing children to formal, direct education at too young an age is counterproductive and can suppress childrens natural enthusiasm and curiosity for accepting. American educator John Holt (1923-85) devoted much of his time researching this topic. It is important to whole tone that Aistear is inspected in primary school settings only.It is notinspected in pre-school settings , which whitethorn have reduced its impact. drop Pre-School Year Programme In 2010, the Department of Children and Youth affairs introduced the Free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education Programme. Before this, it was only children in disadvantaged areas who could avail of free or subsided pre-school education. The Free Pre- School Year Programme recognises that all children gain from quality pre-school education.The political program recognises that because pre-school education in Ireland usually comes from private providers, it is expensive and therefore not easy to all children, e.g. parents not working outside the home. Under the programme, pre-school providers are paid per child enrolled . The provider must meet certain criteria before entering the scheme, e. g. staff qualificati ons. This has had the effect of incentivising providers to meet criteria, which in turn has increased the quality of provision. ECEC Services Currently Available in Ireland The types of ECEC services currently available in Ireland can be organised under these headings Sessional services, which provide ECEC services for a set period of time during the day e. g. 9am 1pm.Full time services which provide ECEC services throughout the day Part-time services which provide ECEC services for a total of more than 3. 5 hours and less than 5 hours a day . It whitethorn include a sessional pre-school service for pre-school children not attending the part-time day care services. Up to 80% of services in Ireland, whether sessional or full time, are have and operated by the private sector. All file awayed services regardless of who operates or funds them must comply with the Child Care Pre-School Regulations 2006 and they must follow the Siolta and Aister frame industrial plant.Sessional Service s Play separatesPlaygroups operate in a range of settings and are usually open approximately three hours per day. Children usually attend playgroups from the age of two-and-a-half until they go to primary school. several(prenominal) playgroups are privately owned. Community playgroups are primarily funded by government and run by community members. Many community playgroups are staffed by individuals on government employment schemes like Community Employment Scheme (CE). These staff members are encouraged to undertake further education and learning.Montessori Schools Usually, Montessori pre-schools are privately owned and they operate for approximatelythree hours per day. Some Montessori schools run two sessions morning and afternoon, with children attending one session per day. Montessori pre-schools are run according to the principles and educational methods of maria Montessori. While Montessori pre-schools in Ireland do follow the Aistear framework, they in addition learn via the Montessori curriculum and practical materials. Naionrai Naionrai are pre-schools run through the medium of the Irish language. They are supported by an organisation called Forbairt Naionrai Teoranta and there are almost 200 of them nationwide.Naionrai also follow the Aistear framework, of which there is an Irish language version. Children between the ages of 3-5 attend for approximately three hours. Early Start The Early Start Programme is a one year preventative interaction scheme offered in selected pre-schools in designated disadvantaged areas. The bearing of the pre-school programme which is managed by the Department of Education and Skills is to tackle educational disadvantaged by targeting children who are at risk of not reaching their potential deep down the school system.The Early Start Pre-School Programme was introduced in 1994 in eight pilotschools in disadvantaged areas. It expanded the following year to 40 schools and now caters for over 1,650 children in Irelan d. Most Schools are located in the Dublin area, with 26 schools there. There are six in Cork, three in Limerick. There is one in each Galway, Waterford, Bray, Dundalk and Drogheda. Early Start implements the Aistear framework in effort to enhance the overall development of young children and to prevent school nonstarter by trying to counteract the effects of social disadvantages. Pre-schools for Traveller Children Up to recently funding was provided for a number of pre-schools that catered for specificallyTraveller children who might not otherwise have been able to avail of a pre-school year. However, since the introduction of the Free Pre-School Year Programme in 2010, all children can avail of one years free pre-school, so there is no longer separated provision for Traveller children. Pre-Schools for Children with Special require Local Health Officers and/or voluntary bodies provide services for young children with severe or profound disabilities. Services are provided in specia lised centres around the country and are generally run by clinical director and staffed by nurses with an intellectualdisability qualification, ECEC trained teachers and often therapists.While pre-school children in Ireland do not have a specific right to education, they are entitled to certain health services that are related to education. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is responsible for providing psychological services and row and language therapy services for pre-school children with disabilities who are assessed as needing these services. Assessments of children under 5 are carried out under the assessment of need provisions of the Disability Act 2005. The visit Teachers Service ofthe Department of Education and Skills (DES) provides a service to young children with visual and /or hearing impairment, from the age of 2. There are a small number of pre-school class units for children with autistic spectrum disorder. These unites are sometimes attached to primary schools. The re are also a number of ABA schools in Ireland. These schools cater for children with autism by using a specific method of teaching called Applied Behavioural Analysis.Parent and Toddler Groups These are informal groups where babies and toddlers go with their parents to meet otherbabies, toddlers and parents. They are aimed at providing play and socialisation opportunities for children and normally take place in settings such as community centres or parents homes. Parent and Toddler groups are supported by Early Childhood Ireland. Full-Time Services Creches, Day Care Centres and Nurseries These terms are used to describe services offering full-time care and education for babies and children. Services are usually provided for children aged 6 months to school going age.Childcare regulations state that the adult-baby ratio must not exceed 13 this ratio increases to15 for babies over 12 months. Because of this many settings will not accept children less than 12 months. Many facilities a lso offer afterschool care and/or homework clubs for primary school children. This means that creches, day care centres and nurseries now cater for children aged 6 months to 12 years. While most full-time services are privately owned and funded by parental fees, a small number are government funded, i. e. community creches. Some large employers and also many of the larger colleges and universities provide creche facilities at subsidised rates for their staff and students.These usually operate a long day (8am-6pm) to facilitate working parents. Some city creches open as early as 6am. Family Day Care/ Childminding This is the most common form of ECEC service in Ireland. According to Childminding Ireland (2012) approximately 70% of children in out of home settings are cared for in this way. It is estimated that there 37,900 childminders working in Ireland today. (National Childcare Strategy 2006) Childminders who care for three or few children are exempt from the Childcare (Pre-School ).Regulations 2006 however they are encouraged to biographyvoluntarily with their local Childminder Advisory Officer (CMO) , whose name and gain details are available through the local City/ County Childcare Committee (CCC) Under the Childcare Act 1991 , childminders caring for more than three pre-school children are required to register with the HSE . However many not do so. All childminders whether registered or not are encouraged to follow the National Guidelines for Childminders, which were published by the Minister for Children in 2006 and updated in 2008. Recent government initiatives had tried to regulate their services.These initiatives have tried toregulate this area by offering a number of different incentives to childminders who register their services. These incentives include training by CCCs financial support like childminding development grant 1000 euro and capital grants 75,000, and tax exemptions childminders can earn up to 15,000 per year tax free. If childminder s register, they are included on the CCC list of registered providers. This can be a useful way of advertising childminding services, since many new parents wait to the list of registered providers when investigating childcare options. Occupations within the Childcare Sector Nursery nurses.These practitioners provide care for children in day or residential nurseries, childrens homes, maternity unites and similar establishments. Related job titles include creche assistant and nursery nurse. Playgroup leaders These practitioners deliver and facilitate play opportunities for children in a age range of formal and informal settings, including play groups, play schemes, free play locations and after-school activities. Related job titles include play leader and playgroup assistant. educational /Special Needs Assistants These practitioners assist teachers or relieve them of a variety of non-teaching duties.Job titles include classroom helper, education care officer, non-teaching assistant , school helper and special needs assistant. Childcare manager/supervisor These practitioners ensure that the care and education of the children is being maintained at all times. They take care of any issues that arise and they are in direct contact with parents. They are responsible for the day-to-day running of the childcare facility. This role requires childcare qualifications well experienced in the area. The role also requires excellent inter soulfulnessal and organisation skills and the ability to manage a team of employees.Montessori teacher These practitioners ensure efficient day-to-day running of a Montessori education setting. They follow Montessori guidelines regarding the education of young children. They present different exercises to children using the Montessori materials and they practise observation on a regular basis. Other childcare and related occupations There are many other childcare practitioners who perform a variety of domestic activities in the day-to-day care of children.They supervise and participate in childrens play, educational and other activities. Related job titles include childminder, nanny and au pairCity/County Childcare Committees (CCCs) There are 33 City/County Childcare Committees that were established in 2001 to encourage and facilitate the development of childcare locally. They provide information and advice on setting up your own business in the childcare sector, training courses for people interested in working in the childcare sector and useful information for parents about local childcare facilities. In Budget 2006, the Irish government announced the establishment of the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which succeeded the previous earlier EqualOpportunities Childcare Programme.City/County Childcare Committees are open to members of public who wish to apply for grant assistance and support information under the National Childcare Investment Programme. Public Health Nurse The public Health Nurse is employed by the HSE. Their role is to serve the community with a range of healthcare services they are also registered general nurses. They are based within the community and will cover certain local areas. They may visit schools. They may visit the elderly people who require help to dress a wound.They also visit newborn babies and theirmothers within six-week period of them being discharged from hospital. Public Health Nurses engage in regular contact with GPs, hospitals and other healthcare providers about a patient in their care. This will ensure that other healthcare providers have up to date friendship so they can ensure best practice. Special Needs Assistants Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) are employed to facilitate learners with a disability related to education. SNAs may work in a special or mainstream school either on a part or full-time basic. They take on a non-teaching role and are always under the supervision of the classteacher. An SNA may help a child to g et on and off buses.They may also help with feeding and toileting. SNAs are required to have an appropriate qualification to work as a special needs assistant. Primary Teachers Primary teachers are qualified are qualified to teach the primary school curriculum to children aged 4-12. Primary school teachers have a number of important roles. They ensure the social and academic development of the children in their care. They plan and deliver lessons within the primary school curriculum and they have regular interaction with parents and guardians. Educational Psychologists.The role of educational psychologist is to assess the needs of children and young people who have problems relating to behaviour, learning and/or social /emotional development. This may be done by observing and/or interviewing the child. The appropriate methods of helping the child will be established e. g. different therapies, counselling or learning support programmes. Educational psychologists work in many differen t settings, within schools, the HSE, private practices and third level institutions.Family Support Workers The Family Support Worker Service offers practical and emotional support to families if it isrequired. The aim of this service is to ensure where possible that children remain with their families. This service also offers home-based support to families for a certain number of hours per week. The support service includes parenting skills, information on diet, nutrition and healthcare, budgeting and family finance, and confidence and personal development. If the family support worker has concerns regarding the family, they will report this information to a social worker.Social Workers The Social Worker in childcare services can work in four main areas child protection, childplacement, child and adolescent psychiatry, and family support. Social workers often work with families and individuals that require support with a number of problems such as emotional, social, psychiatric and behavioural. They may also work with individuals and their families on a regular basis regarding issues such as child abuse and domestic violence. Childcare Organisations and Non-governmental Agencies Barnardos Barnardos childrens charity delivers a variety of services and work in close proximity with children and their families depending on their specific needs.The aim is to promote family learning and development and, therefore, to enhance the families overall eudaimonia. Barnardos strives to give children positive childhood experiences. If a childs learning and development, and his or her emotional wellbeing is successfully and measurably alter through our work. Then the childs ability to benefit from life opportunities and manage life challenges will be improved and therefore, the path of his or her life will be changed for the better. Barnardos aims to improve government laws, policies and procedure across all areas that affect childrens lives.They do this to ensure that the experience and experience they gain through working with children and their families in areas such as education and health is heard at government level. They also engage in regular political meetings with government and opposition parties and relevant policy makers. There are a number of ways in which people can learn about the work of Barnardos. Internet, posters, media interviews and articles. Barnardos offers services across three stages of child development Children aged 0-5 (best start) Children aged 6-12 (best chance) Children and young people aged 13-18 (best choice).Barnardos may work with a childs family in order for the child to experience a happy family life with good relationships with parents and siblings. This work include Providing group sessions with parents and children to practise skills such as listening and problem solving skills. Providing help and advice to parents in different areas like challenging behaviour. engaging with children of different ages on re verent and often sensitive issues e. g. a family affected by alcohol misuse Providing a guardian ad litem a person who is qualified and experienced in working withchildren that are involved in family law proceedings.This service gives children involved an independent voice in court. This person can speak on behalf of the child and explain what their particular wishes are. The guardian ad litem works in conjunction with the childs family at all times. Providing an creation tracing service, this is especially for people who spent some or all of their childhood growing up in an Irish industrial school. This confidential service provides them with the necessary assistance in finding information relating to their relatives. Staffs who deliver this service are highly trained.Providing a confidential post adoption service for adults such as a helpline or e-mail service for birth family and adoptive family members. A mediation service is available for people who were adopted and have come in contact with birth relatives and want to begin correspondence. There are training and support meetings for parents who have adopted children from various countries outside of Ireland. The service may also be useful for adoptive parents to discuss any questions they may have about their adult adoptive child seeking birth relatives. Barnardos provide a range of parenting programmes and talks.These are designed for parentsof children of every age 0-18. These programmes can offer support to parents in managing their childs needs and understanding their child. Topics will be selected to address the needs of parents and their childs stage of development. Teen parent programmes are another important part of the work Barnardos do. In these programmes, Barnardos works in careful collaboration with teenage parents both male and female, together with their children to assist them with advice on financial /educational support. Services Provided to the Community Barnardos works with children in disadvantaged areas. They provide many services,including the following. Early Years/Tus Maith Service These are programmes suitable for children aged 0-5.The main principle is to support children and to manage transition into primary school. This programme works using the HeighScope approach, where children have direct experiences based on their own interests and ideas, along with a programme called REDI programme (research based, developmentally informed) Friendship group Barnardos realise the importance of children having friends particularly friends of their own age . Therefore they offer a friendship group which facilitates children in learning thenecessary skills to establish accredited and meaningful relationships. These friendship groups are typically suited for children aged 6-9 .Each group is made up of six children and two staff who meet every week for two hours over the period of a week. Vetting service Barnardos provides a vetting service that assists in the process ing of Garda vetting applications for a number of groups/organisations that are not directly registered with the Garda Vetting Unit. This is at the request of and in collaboration with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) Wizard of Words.Barnardos provides a service known as Wizard of Words (WoW). The programme is a paired literacy improvement programme. It is suitable for children in first and second class in primary school. The programme is delivers one-to-one tuition with older volunteers during school time and on the school premises. The trained volunteers who are typically 55 and over meet with children who have been nominated by the teacher, three times a week during school hours. The volunteers provide reading supports in the implementing of the programme, monitors progress and ensures that the programme is run effectively.WoW iscurrently hosted in eight schools in Dublin and Limerick. provision and consultancy Barnardos offers training to childcare profession als, parents and all people that work in the childcare area. The training given is within the important context of Siolta , the National Quality Framework . Bereavement counselling Barnardos has bereavement counselling service for children and young people who have lost someone close to them. They try and help them through the grieve process and give them the opportunity to talk. Counsellors are based in Cork and Dublin, but work with children from across the country.Childminding Ireland Childminding Ireland aims to promote quality childminding as a benefit form of non-parental care for children of all ages, from infancy to school age. Childminding Ireland explains that childminders are dedicated to offering constant care in small, home like settings in which children are most comfortable. Childminding Ireland, as the National Association, is committed to promoting the development of quality in family based care for children by providing a range of services for childminders, promoti ng Siolta quality standards, development of local childminding networks (www. childmindingireland.ie).Childminding Ireland has a number of objectives in relation to childcare. They aim to Promote high-quality ECEC standards for children and ensure that all their development needs are met Support and advise childminders and parents in the area of ECEC Maintain a code of standards for family-based care for children Encourage the recognition of childminding as a positive care facility for young children. Childminding Ireland strives to ensure that their knowledge is heard at government level they have direct contact with the Minister for Children and the officials who design policies that are direct.

Examining class differences Essay

(a)Explain briefly what is meant by the term elaborated speech code . Elaborate speech code is usually associated with middle-class, sanitary educated people. It uses a wide variety of vocabulary, is more context based, uses grammatically complex sentences, communicates abstract ideas and is mostly context-free.(b)Identify three policies that governments have introduced to compensate for material and ethnical disadvantage, apart from Educational Priority Areas. Compensatory education is a policy designed in order to tackle the problem of cultural deprivation, by providing resources to communities as good as schools in deprive beas. An example of a compensatory education programme is Operation Head Start in the United States, which is one of the best cognize examples of such programmes. Operation Head Start focuses on pre-school planned enrichment education in poorer areas, which was introduced in the 1960s. Their aim was to develop childrens learning skills and instil deed moti vation. This included tasks such as setting up nursery classes, home visits by health visitors and educational psychologists, improving parenting skills and the creation of intensive learning programmes for deprived children.Sesame Street, the popular TV programme, was initially created as part of Head Start, in order to reach young children and reflecting the values and attitudes contracted for educational triumph such as the importance of general knowledge, literacy and numeracy. In the UK, there have been several compensatory education programmes over the years, such as the Education Priority Areas that were created in the 1960s, Education Action Zones, which were introduced in the 1960s, and more recently, with the launch in 2000, comes Sure Start. Sure Start is a nationwide programme aimed at pre-school children as sanitary as their parents.However, it also has non-educational aims, such as improving childrens health. Sure Start was introduced by the British Government in or der to tackle poorness and social exclusion. The centres available provide integrated education, family support, support with parental employment, care and health services. Sure Starts main aim is to work with parents to move on the physical, intellectual, educational and social development of babies and young children, particularly those who are disadvantaged.(c)Outline some of the ways in which material deprivation whitethorn affect educational achievement. square deprivation is a lack of resources and necessities needed to live a basic lifestyle, such as an adequate diet, housing, clothing, or in some cases, the money to be able to buy these things. Material deprivation potty affect educational achievement as the result of the lack of these necessities. Children in education will need financial support from their parents/carers in order to pursue a sufficient education however disadvantaged families cannot afford educational aids. As well as that, families living in poverty w hitethorn have limited space in their home.This leads to overcrowding, which means there is nowhere for the child to study. Also, this could lead to illness, depending on the kingdom and cleanliness of the house. For example, dampness can cause a variety of illnesses, which leads to absence at school, therefore, lessening the childs chance of a successful education. Some parents may force their children to leave school early and pursue a career in order to provide extra income for the family.(d)Using material from Item A (source) and elsewhere, evaluate the view that working class children under-achieve because they are culturally deprived. The idea that working-class children will most likely under-achieve due to a lack of culture, also cognise as cultural deprivation, refers to children lacking the norms, values, beliefs, skills and knowledge that a society would regard as important and necessary. The attributes that these children should know and learn are, in most cases, taug ht by their parents and are passed to the next generation through socialisation. All children are socialised differently, and the social class of the parent has a huge impact on the child and may affect their achievement in education.According to the cultural deprivation theory, some working-class parents fail to communicate and instil the appropriate norms, values, beliefs, skills and knowledge needed for educational success. However, there are other factors that can determine how well a child does within education. For example, material deprivation, cultural capital and economic capital can also have an impact on how well some children will attain, therefore cultural deprivation is not the only factor and may not be the most important reason to why working-class children under-achieve.

Marketing Plan for Snap Fitness Essay

Executive SummaryWith todays society stressing a greater demand for flexibility, and exempt of access to goods and services, a trend has emerged for extended trading hours for service organizations. One of the chief(prenominal) profiteers of this trend is middle schoolnasium franchises. With over 1 billion people in the global population universe overweight, and the still present economic uncertainty leading to longer working hours for most people, there is a demand for slight rigid opening and closing hours of gyms. Consequently, the boom of the 24 hour gym came ab bulge.3Cs outlineThe following section contains an analysis of the company, customer and competitors of ginger snap fittingness. Analysis of the CompanyThe give way fitness franchise has become a global leader within the budget wellness club industry since starting in 2003. It has since established a large client base of over 1 million peniss in over 2000 clubs worldwide and 100 clubs throughout Australia (Sl oan, 2014). ruffle Fitness provides a 24/7 service with limited catered contact hours ranging from 30 to 40 hours per calendar week, and utilises a no-contract payment system. Additional services include senior high school flavor targeted fitness classes, nutritional consultation and access to accredited Personal Trainers. centering Fitness was ranked by Entrepreneur Magazine as No.1 Best in Category for fitness franchises in 2009. As well, Inc. Magazine at No. 16 on its annual Inc 500 which is a list ranked by Inc Magazine of privately owned businesses. ( wear Fitness, 2014)Customer AnalysisA gym can essentially recruit any type of person interested in fitness to sign up beca expenditure of the variety of services offered, much(prenominal) as weights, bill posterio machines, group fitness sessions, dieticians etc.. This being said, 60-70% of Snap Fitness customers in Australia argon already experienced gym users who just want to get in and get started upon joining (Australian Leisure, 2010). This leaves around 30-40% of members to be inexperienced gym usersthat impart require attend to getting started, whether this is by group fitness sessions or personal training sessions. Snaps Fitness offers low prices and the gyms are open 24/7 content dominance Snap Fitness members are seeking convenience alternatively than quality. Snap Fitness doesnt have facilities such as saunas and pools etc. that other gyms such as Fitness First regularly feature and the size of these gyms are smaller in comparison to other big gyms such as Goodlife, and Genesis.This operator that Snap Fitness will generally attract people who work out recreationally a few clock a week as unconnected to a bodybuilder who is training for competitions and would benefit from these additional services. In Australia 13% of the total adult population participate in fitness activities. Within this separate the most significant demographic is the age group bracket is 15 to 34 years in both t he female and male segments and females aged 34 to 54 years. Overall there is greater female (16% of the population) participation then male (9.4% of the population) across all age brackets (Australian Bureau, 2009).Analysis of the CompetitorWith the market for gym-goers being so extensive, there exists steep competition between gyms for patrons. One such competitor of Snap Fitness is Jetts gym. A membership with Jetts is slightly more valuable than Snap, m whizztary valueing $13.95 per week, with an additional joining fee of $89 and $59 for an access card. Jetts withal offer an advance 12 month membership, costing $549, paid in one lump sum at the meter of joining. Jetts offers its members 24/7 access to all of its 200+ clubs in Australia with the use of the swipe card, delivering a high level of convenience for its members (see figure 1.2). However with Jetts, as opposed to Snap Fitness, once the card is registered in the security system, no further registration is require to gain entry to multiple clubs the card is usable immediately, creating convenience for its members. (Jetts, 2014) However, unlike Snap Fitness, Jetts has no member benefits to retail outlets or other service centres. Jetts has stock a Canstar award two years running. For the years of 2012 and 2013, Jetts was voted as the No.1 gym chain in Australia for customer satisfaction. (Jetts, 2014)Another similarly competitive gym is Stepz. As well as operating 24/7, Stepz is entirely Australia owned, with clubs only when within Australia. While this, to both(prenominal) people, would be a selling point, italso poses a curse to Stepz whereby is creates less convenience for its patrons by having fewer clubs members can attend (see figure 1.2). (Stepz, 2014) A Stepz Memberships costs $13 a week, with a one-off joining fee of $89, collectable upfront and an access card fee of $55, with which the member has access to any Stepz club Australia-wide. (Stepz, 2014) As too with Jetts, Stepz has no membership perks for gym members that exist extracurricular the gym, i.e., retail discounts, etc. Stepz employs a tactic whereby the number of members allowed to enrol in each club is limited. This is done to provide the members with a more personalized service, and the staff can cater to the members needs more specifically. Also, by limiting the number of patrons, it ensures that there will rarely be a wait cadence to use gym equipment. (Stepz, 2014)In todays market, there exist other types of rival services in the gym racket. Not gyms that offer round-the-clock service, rather gyms that cater specifically to the specialty needs of their patrons gyms such as Curves. Curves is a specially degestural gym catering explicitly to the needs of women. Founded in 1992 in Texas, today Curves has clubs in over 70 countries, with over 300 clubs in Australia alone. Curves is the largest company being analysed in this competitor analysis (see figure 1.2).Memberships at Curves cost $18.24 a week, with a $149 joining fee. By far out of Snap, Jetts and Stepz Curves is the most expensive gym (see figure 1.1). However, Curves, unlike the others, has tailor-made programs targeted directly at women, for women, by women. This creates a connection among the club members and enables the staff and trainers of Curves to have a competitive march on in the service industry, offering a one-of-a-kind service catering only to the needs of women. (Curves, 2014) Gyms such as Curves and Contours (another gym aimed specifically at the needs of women) has created a whole new-fangled market segment, which poses a threat to existing generic gyms, and even those that are 24 hours. Gyms that are specially designed for women may take business away from other gyms such as Snap, as a result of such gyms not exhibiting greater dedication or focus to individual needs of groups in the market segment (ie. Female gym-goers).Analysis of the 4PsProductMembership entitles the user access to all the gym equipment (includingcardio and weights), group workout sessions and, one initial free PT introduction session with a fitted instructor including a weight and measure, guidance while using machines and an initial workout plan. Optional membership add-ons include PT sessions, consults with a qualified dietician and 8 week challenges.PriceSingle membership, joint membership and family memberships are available. The price for single membership is $25 a fortnight this shortly includes group workout sessions and access to all types of training equipment. Joint and family memberships are generally charged at a discounted rate such as $17 each a fortnight for a family membership consisting of a husband and wife. A membership with Snap is not a lock-in contract, and in addition to the biweekly fee there is a one-off joining fee of $99, paid upfront and a further $29 for the Snap access card.PlaceA regular location for a Snap Fitness outlet is a high profile business strip or mall, wit h cafes, small convenience stores and a set up office. Locations normally have access to close parking and provide a well lit exterior to ensure the safety of clients using the premise during untypical hours. Currently the most successful Snap Fitness business is located in Milton and through location analysis it was found that Snap Fitness Strathpine also possesses many of these important location characteristics (Australian Leisure, 2010).PromotionSnap Fitness promotes itself as a convenient (open 24/7 and membership grants access to any Snap Fitness location) and budget gym with a focus on physical wellbeing of young adults. Snap Fitness often has one core publicity consisting of a limited, one prison term offer of free joining and 1 week free gym access. If this offer is not running potential members do still get a free one day trial. Snap Fitness also have offers for current gym members such as discover a friend and get a month free. A consistent content present throughout promotional material is that there are no membership contracts. This means that if a member wants to leave it is a simple process and will be no cancellation fee.With a gym membership to Snap Fitness Strathpine, the member receives perks from organizations affiliated with Snap Strathpine. These benefits include a buy one, get one free scheme at the Strathpine Hyperbowl bowling alley, a 10% discount at Mega Choice and Mega Party variety stores, lunch deals at Outback Jacks Bar & Grill, and more. (Snap Fitness, 2014)Analysis of Customer Service Strategies (People/Processes)Quality customer service is key to an organisations survival in todays market. For gym owners, the revenue source is in direct proportion to the membership base i.e., if gym owners arent able to get people through the door, their profits will plummet. In order to ensure a gym main(prenominal)tains a competitive edge in the fitness industry, it is essential to provide a consistent level of high quality customer serv ice. This plays a crucial role in member acquisition and retention. It is imperative that the quality of customer service is always top priority, to ensure repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth. (Fagan, 2013)A recent study has shown that customer referrals is the main reason why new customers hear about a business, or come into the business with 30% of people stating a current member referred them. (Lewis, 2014) Snap Fitness offers a variety of customer services, such as being open 24 hours having friendly, qualified staff efficient handling of complaints strong community comportment through social initiatives and business partnerships no lock-in contracts 24 hour security surveillance member benefits (i.e., retail discounts) and having innovative facilities to ensure convenience and easiness for members, such as having access to treadmills, cross trainers, rowing machines, free weights, shower and change rooms, bathroom amenities, stretching areas and group fitness rooms. (Snap, 2014)Snaps main customer service strategies are promotions with neighbouring establishments, corporate tie ups, and social media facets. In March of this year, Peter Taunton, CEO of Snap Fitness, launched an initiative to coincide with National everyday Health Week in the US. With word driven by the force of social media outlets, Snap Fitness, starting April 7, was offering seven days of free workouts, with no further obligations to Snap. This complimentary week was offered in support of public health and to get people motivated, and get potential members throughthe door. (Taunton, 2014) With a strong presence within the community through ongoing social initiatives and partnerships with neighbouring establishments and other corporations, Snap fitness consolidates its standing as a people-friendly gym with a community-orientated outlook, making itself as attractive as possible for potential members.Analysis of the Service EnvironmentOne of the most significant fusss Snap Fit ness faces is during apex of the suns way training cadence when the facilities are prone to becoming overcrowded (more demand than supply of equipment). Gym users dislike this mainly because of waiting clock for machines and weights, and as a result some will completely avoid these peak times favouring a more secluded training environment. This is a difficult issue to resolve as Snap Fitness always wants more members, but at the same time if too many members are at the gym at a certain time members can become unsatisfied. Another issue with Snap Fitness is their process of making the entry cards inactive. It was found through a sentiment analysis (appendices) identified card denial as a significant area of dissatisfaction amongst users as often they have to come back during manned hours to resolve the problem. This problem stems from direct debits not clearing and is made worse by the fact that clients arent notified when this occurs (appendices blueprint).Members of Snap Fitnes s have had to travel to the gym and be denied access, out front realizing their card has been made inactive. A minor issue Snap Fitness faces is that its front counter is not always manned even during staffed hours. There are windows of time when all personal trainers who are in the gym are on the floor with clients, this could be for many reasons including assisting with a workout or keep to the facility. During this time if someone calls the gym or comes in to enquire about joining there may be no one available to agree these requests. This can lead to missed opportunities in gaining new clients, and a reputation for bad customer service.RecommendationsIn relation to the issue of equipment use during a session, one of the most viable solutions is to implement peak and off peak membership options. The way this would work is for people who choose to go to the gym during peak times would pay the rates currently being offered and would be able to alsogo to the gym in off peak times . The members who purchase off peak membership are allowed access to the gyms at off peak hours for a discounted membership price. These members have the choice to attend during peak times when they swipe their card to enter the gym, however a small fee will be charged to their fortnightly bill enabling the membership to be flexible. It is worth noting that Snap Fitness aims to be a cheap, convenient gym, so without the option of expanding and adding more equipment, this is one of the best ways to encourage members to train at different times and prevent an overcrowded gym.The issue of card access can easily be solved through a change in the communication process meaning gym members should be aware if their payment doesnt clear prior to the card being deactivated. This could be done by an automated text message or a phone call from a staff member at the gym. When a payment is declined Snap Fitness members should be given time (48 hours would be appropriate) to resolve this issue an d make the payment. If a member still fails to make the payment after this 48 hour window they should then be informed that their card will no longer permit access to the gym until a payment is made. This will ensure members are always informed of when their payments dont clear and if a member is unable to make this payment they can then contact Snap Fitness and work out a different payment method. A way for the manned counter be solved is having very clearly defined hours designated to man the desk (clear signage of hours at the mark front and on all advertisement material including pamphlets).During this time there would always be someone answer phone calls and talk to people who physically enter the gym to respond to questions about joining. This way its clear when it is appropriate to enter the gym to ask questions in person and when the best time to call up would be. Phone messages should be kept track of and returned during these staffed desk hours to ensure all customer enqu iries are being answered in a timely manner. From the rating conducted the recommendation with the most benefit would be introducing a distinction between on and off peak membership. This strategy could attract a lot of new members because people who train at off peak times at other gyms would see how cheap this option is and consider transferring.People already signed up to Snap Fitness could also beinterested in cheaper memberships and could change their workout times from on peak to off peak, which would reduce some of the clutter in the gym. This would then help to reduce overcrowded gyms during peak times, which would then increase the enjoyment of on peak members because they would have less waiting time for equipment. Currently the gym is often close to empty at off peak times and having this extra influx of people there at these curious hours is extra money Snap Fitness could capitalize on with its 24/7 system.AppendicesAppendices 1Price positioning mapHigh PriceCurvesSnap FitnessJettsStepzLow PriceAppendices 2Size positioning mapLarge in sizeCurvesSnapJettsStepz down(p) in sizeSmall in sizeAppendices 3SWOT AnalysisSWOT AnalysisStrengthsWeaknessLarge established client baseKnown brand stimulateCustomised workoutsWell trained staff/ PTsOpen 24/7Can go to any Snap Fitness centreNo contracts monthly payment planYoga & fitness classesRange of machine types7 day trial periodAccredited dieticianLockers to secure valuables8 week challenge programs club bondingLimited staff resources not always mannedWaiting times for equipment in peak timesSmaller gym less equipment, space and more demand on staffOpportunitiesThreatsPotential partnerships/ sponsors currently have some with local businesses (e.g. cafe discount) New membership types e.g. found on consumption times/typesPaying for one group class without buying a membershipAdditional services e.g. Steam room, juice breakNew health trends types of classes offered e.g. ZumbaCommunity orientationExpand e xisting complexesDiscounts for localsWidespread competition such as home gyms and other similar companies such as Jetts Unmotivated staffDecreased interest in fitnessBeing a small, budget gym expansion opportunities could deter clients as they prefer a smaller businessOriginal Service normalWithin this blueprint several key bottlenecks were identified, these include contacting the gymBooking into sessionsEquipment usageUpdated Service BlueprintReference ListAbout Us Overview. (2014). Retrieved quaternary May, 2014, from http//www.curves.com.au/about-curves/ About Us. (2014). Retrieved 1st May, 2014, from http//www.snapfitness.com.au/about-us/ About Us. (2014). Retrieved 4th May, 2014, from http//stepzfitness.com.au/about-us/ Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2009). Feature article 2 health and fitness centres and gymnasia (no. 4156.0.55.001). Canberra, Australia. Australian Leisure Snap Fitness Plans for 200 Clubs. (2010). Retrieved from Current Levels of Customer Satisfaction at a CrossFit Gym. Digital Commons USU. Retrieved from http//digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1241& consideration=gradreports Curves Community. (2014). Retrieved 4th May, 2014, from http//www.curves.com.au/community/ Fagan, L. (2013, October 4). What is gym customer service? Retrieved from http//blog.gyminsight.com/2013/10/what-is-gym-customer-service/ http//global.factiva.com.libraryproxy.griffith.edu.au/redir/default.aspx?P=sa&an=NLJ0000020140217ea2h0000q&cat=a&ep=ASEhttp//www.ausleisure.com.au/news/snap-fitness-plans-for-200-clubs Lewis, S. (2013). An Online Customer Service Survey to Determine Memberships. (2014). Retrieved 4th May, 2014, from http//stepzfitness.com.au/memberships/ Prices. (2014). Retrieved 3rd May, 2014, from http//www.jetts.com.au/prices Public Health Week. Retrieved from