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Disabilities in Society

Disabilities in Society
Disabilities in Society

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Disabilities in Society

Introduction
Disability may take two different approaches depending on the frame of reference or the circumstances. The meaning of disability may take a bio-medical approach or a functional approach. For the purpose of this research paper, disability shall be assessed on two main points of view. First, a disability shall be defined as any condition that when judged on the basis of function, it renders an individual impaired in comparison to the typical or standard way of functioning.

Statistically, disability can be understood as a condition that renders an individual’s performance or functioning in a particular area to fall below the population average or the average performance of the general group in the same area. This impairment may be cognitive, intellectual, physical, mental disability, or some types of chronic diseases.  

Disabilities are everywhere in the society. In learning institutions, there are students with learning disabilities. At the workplace there are individuals or employees with disabilities. While some disabilities originate from childhood or childhood experiences, some originate from the adulthood when an individual is already in the working-age. This research paper explores both scenarios and makes an attempt to draw a connection between them consequently assessing the policy implications of disabilities in the society and the practicability of these social policies in achieving their objectives.

The main aim of this research paper is to explore disability on a wider perspective and examine it with respect to the society’s attitude to disability then explores policy implications of the experiences of the disabled members of the society with a more inclination on the learners and those in the working-age.

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Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework used in this research paper is based on the framework developed by Connors (2007), which traces disability in the society from the sociology of childhood and through the social relationship model while at the same time incorporating the aspect of difference in the model. Even though the Connors’ theoretical was basically focused on exploring the experiences of children with disabilities in the society, the model is fit for this particular study since it gives an appropriate approach to the roots of disability and provides a better understanding of the experiences disabled members of the society experience from childhood to adulthood.

Therefore, the theoretical framework of this paper is developed on the basis of the social model of disability and the social relational model of disability and incorporates the concept of difference to explore the subject of disability in the society. One part puts emphasis on the importance of the environment on the participation while the other puts emphasis on the significance of the quality of life.

The Sociology of Childhood

The majority of previous childhood studies have dwelled mainly on exploring and researching on the development of the child and the main areas of focus have been the child’s psychological development, social development and physical development. it is important to trace disabilities in the society from a childhood perspective because most disabilities originate from early days of human development.

However, as has been mentioned, the studies on childhood development did not put into consideration the disabilities that children acquire or are born with and which they live with into their adulthood. The studies mainly viewed children in adult eyes thereby giving children a passive role in their development. They were therefore viewed by the society as adults in training (Mayall 2002). 

The notion that childhood, as opposed to biological immaturity, could be a result of socially constructed aspect that results from the interplay of factors like social class, individual’s gender and ethnicity only came to materialization in the course of the ‘sociology of childhood’. A number of studies (e.g. Mayall 2002 and James 1993) recognized that children possess a distinctive perspective and dynamically shaping their own lives.

These studies, which have provided a clearer picture of children’s accounts of their experiences, have enabled the society to realize and appreciate that the lives of the children in the society are not homogenous. This lack of homogeneity therefore necessitates studies that look at the children all their diversity (Brannen and O’ Brien 1995). Studies must pay special attention to the children’s experiences if at all the general themes in the lives of children should be understood.

This approach, according to Colver (2005) in his paper  on social model of disability, brings out greater potential for understanding the social model of disability and integrating the understanding with the sociology of childhood and this in turn allows a better understanding of the experiences of the disabled children. The social model accentuates the significance of the environment to participation. 

Disabilities in Society

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The social relational model of disability

Connors’ work (2005) was principally important to the achievement of this paper’s objective because of the extensive work laid out in the study relating to the experiences of the disabled people in the society. The author provides an extensive relationship between unequal social relationship and disabilities in the society. The author further likens this relations hip and its origins in the society to that or racism and sexism, which both result in social impositions of restrictions “of activity on the impaired people by the non-impaired members of the society” (Connors 2005).

These imposed restrictions could be through creation of barriers to the individual to do something or to being someone. Barriers could be created and imposed on the disabled individual to do something that is physical or economic. Such barriers could also be material barriers such as inaccessibility to buildings, transport, and these by nature will restrict the disabled person from undertaking activities related to the barriers created.

This point is further reinforced by the study carried by Bradbury et al (2001), who reiterate that creation of socio-economic barriers to the disabled members of the society is an impetus to prevalence of apathy and the notion that disabilities are a tragic accident and a mess to the enforcement of socio-economic policies. 

Disabilities in Society

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Literature Review

Disabilities in Learning Institutions

Learning disability affects the intelligence quotient of the individual. It is a condition that leads to fall in individual’s intelligence quotient below the normal range. Brain is affected adversely which makes the individual unable to perform very well in various activities. Children with learning disabilities encounter difficulties in sensory information processing which in turn impacts on the ability of the individual to interpret various activities in the learning institution.

Learning disability limits individual ability to see, hear and properly understand what is been imparted to them in school like other normal students. It is important to take care of these persons in order to avoid severe impacts.

Duquette (1998) provides an explorative assessment of the various teaching techniques that should be used in the learning institutions that have students who have learning disabilities. It is imperative to understand the fact that children with learning disabilities are not very attentive, cannot realize their dreams by their own. They have to be assisted to learn various ways of doing things.  Learning disabilities generally affect the process of information relay in the nervous system. This affects the way information is received, processed or communicated. 

Disabilities in Society

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Allyn and Bacon (2007) posit that instruction intermarried with effectual teaching for students with learning disabilities calls for expert familiarity in the areas of spoken language and reading and proficiency in writing as well as specialized knowledge in handling math. This further calls for evidence based teaching within each area as proposed by Summer (2007).

As an instructor, it is important to realize that there are learning disabilities which encumber learners of average or above-average acumen in easily and reliably processing a range of types of information.  For instance learners with dyslexia exhibit a perceptual deficit that scuttles sequences of letters or numbers. For this reason, it would be a big achievement for the teacher to understand how the learning disability exhibits itself and the methods that the student previously used to handle the disability in the past.

The instructor will only gain the knowledge of that if he discusses with student about the issue. In addition, it is vital that the instructor appreciates that learning disabilities do not stem from a learner’s intelligence (Allyn and Bacon 2007). They also don’t result from physical or emotional health of the student; neither are they as a result of the student’s cultural background or socioeconomic circumstances.  

It is possible for learning disabilities to exist amid other disabilities. For example learners who have head injuries that are brought about by traumatic accidents may require adjustments (accommodations) similar to those provided to persons with learning disabilities.

Disabilities in Society

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Secondly, as supported by Hartman’s study (2008), there are a number of universal teaching techniques which may be very supportive and helpful in making learners with disabilities experience the necessary comfort in the classroom hence show maximum performance possible. First and foremost, while preparing the syllabus, it is important to incorporate a statement learning disability accommodation.

For instance it would take something like: “If you have a disability and would wish to have specific accommodations, kindly discuss this issue with the professor.” Such a statement would clearly act as an indicator to the students with disabilities that the instructor, mentor, tutor or teacher is at ease to discuss the potential need for accommodations. Additionally, it acts as a fillip to the students by encouraging them to talk about accommodations prior to the actual need for them.

The instructor carries the tool that can create an amicable environment for learning. For this reason, the instructor should inform the students in every meeting of every class about the Centre for Special Services (for students with disabilities), if any. The instructor may also be obliged to discuss privately with the students with learning disabilities more so those that have disclosed their condition and hence go further to ask them how the course could be made a good learning experience for them (Allyn & Bacon 2007).

This would be helpful in bringing confidence in them. Students with disabilities may most likely have a problem with time management. To help them out of this, the instructor should issue sufficient notice concerning due dates for assignments. The students may also find reading and writing to be quite hectic and time-consuming. The instructor should therefore allow for extensions for assignments so that such students do not feel punished for their disabilities.

Disabilities in Society

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It is not only in the classroom that the people with learning disabilities will have problems. Even in examinations and undertaking of assignments. Duquette (1998) advices that the instructor should consider alternate methods for the exams as well as the assignments so that the students with disabilities are permitted to have input into the dialogue about alternate methods (for instance allow for handing in of electronic exams for hard copies).

If the instructor encourages the students to play an active role in the classroom, it would be an impetus to their self- confidence and give them an opportunity to make it evident to others that they are not academically disabled. This would further enhance the student’s own learning (Abbott et al 2004). 

For those students with visual impairment, it is appropriate for the instructor to address the particular student with his/her name. Apart from that, the students with visual impairment especially those with low vision should be provided with copies of overheads and board work. For easier follow-up of the lectures by the students, the instructor should allow them to audiotape the lectures. There are names whose spelling may not strictly follow conventions. Such proper names should be spelt out by the instructor for clarity to the students.

Disabilities in Society

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Abbott et al (2004) argue that visual aides may be necessary if the concerned students have hearing impairment (this may call for items like acetates and slides). Secondly, the instructor should make use of a microphone in a large room and understand that while such a student with hearing impairment speech-reads, she or he does not see the instructor’s lips and therefore the instructor should talk while facing the class rather than the chalkboard.

The instructor has a responsibility to extend his or her teaching expertise to the laboratory and in the fieldwork too. To achieve this, the instructor should ensure that when assigning group lab projects, it is done in such a manner that allows every individual of the group to contribute in accordance to individual member abilities. The laboratory equipment should be arranged in a way that makes them accessible to every individual and visible by everyone (Duquette 1998).

According to Summer, (2007), it is very important to employ appropriate teaching technique so as to ensure that students with specific learning disabilities can also get equal learning opportunity. These techniques are applied under different situations. Moreover, Hartman (2008) reiterates that these depend entirely on place where learning process is being carried out such as classroom, laboratory, examinations room and field work as discussed above. The technique to be used is predetermined to ensure efficiency (Hartman, 2008).  

When students are in classroom, it is important for the institution to select courses in advance to enable the students with learning disabilities get enough time to translate them to audiotape or large print. The teachers should make syllabus in advance, short assignment sheets so that they can be used by these students (Duquette 1998). The lecturers should give lectures in very supreme way in that they write key phrases and lecture outlines on the overhead projector.

Disabilities in Society

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Disabilities in Society

As Hartman (2008) adds in his paper on student disability paper, when students are going to learn in the laboratory, it is recommendable that the students with learning disability are permitted to take a tour in advance so that they can learn safety concerns so as to avoid injuries. Lab projects should be assigned according to abilities so as to enable all students undertake their projects efficiently and complete in time. The institution should ensure that the lab equipment is arranged in a manner that all students can access all the equipments necessary for learning. Lecturers should give oral or written lab instructions. 

Some past studies have recommended that students with learning disabilities should undertake their exams in an environment free of distractions (e.g. Summer 2007 and White et al 2000). The exams should focus on the skills and abilities of each student (Hartman 2008). Students with learning disabilities should be given extra time during the time of examination. Exams should be composed in a way that disabled students can easily access them and that they are clearly typed in large black letters with spaces between lines (Duquette 1998). The items in between should be double or triple spaced so as the students can easily read.

Teachers should be very sensitive to students with learning disabilities who may not be able to read aloud due to certain impairments. Teachers and lecturers have the obligation to discuss ways in which students with learning disabilities can participate in class work upon realizing their deficits.

Some of the most powerful tools that an instructor can develop include respect to the students, positive attitudes, flexibility and acceptance (Summer 2007, and Hartman 2008). In situations where the students are faced with teachers who mistrust them or who are not flexible, they (students) become disheartened and may easily fail to maximize on their performance.

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Disabilities in Society

Attitude towards Disability

Studies have shown that research into the area of disabilities in the society would be meaningless if the studies cannot lead to a quantitative contribution to the subject by creating a positive attitude towards disability and people with disabilities (Connors, 2005, and Hannon, 2010). In the study by Hannon (2010), the author posits that the key to improving the efficacy of the efforts pit into addressing the negative experiences of the disabled people in the society should focus on changing the attitudes to people with disabilities.

Hannon further observes that there have been persistent negative attitudes to disability around the world though the trend is improving with more awareness being put into action and governments as well as other stakeholders investing considerably in the creation of awareness in the area of disabilities in the society.

In another research study, White, Jackson and Gordon (2006) explore the implicit and explicit attitudes toward sportspersons with disabilities and they reiterate that there is a positive relationship between the attitude and the experiences of the athletes with disabilities. Their study further show that the prevalent attitudes, which are negative in nature, provide evidence that the members of the society that have disabilities are not yet fully integrated into the society especially given that they are expressed towards intimate relationships for the individuals with disabilities.

Disabilities in Society

Studies have indicated that more positive attitudes are expected when individuals who have disabilities voluntarily get together with other members of the society who have disabilities. Negative attitudes among the people with disabilities deserves special attention since it is likely to slow progress towards equality when  it is the disabled people who have negative attitudes about disability. It means policy making also slows down since the campaigns must target the negative attitudes from the individuals without disabilities and those with disabilities. The campaign is all about the change of the mindset. 

The attitudes could be related top employment where barriers have been created to enhance the socially constructed boundaries within the workplaces or the society in general. Appropriate support mechanisms have been explored by Hannon’s study (2010) as a way that can help employers to have positive attitudes towards those with disabilities and disability as a whole. Hannon (2010) argues that if such mechanisms are put in place the welfare of workers that have intellectual and mental health can be improved.

To support this idea by Hannon, Corrigan and Gelb (2006) argue that the welfare of the mentally incapacitated individuals can be improved through the mass approaches that target employers and the society in general through specific group targets.

Disabilities in Society

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Throughout the body of research that has been carried out in the past it is evident that a number of interventions techniques are common for all the authors in the studies. These intervention techniques have been proposed to influence attitude formation in the society and they include direct contact with the members of the society with disabilities and those that do not have disabilities (Connors, 2005, Hannon, 2010 and Blessing et al, 1999). 

The study by Blessing et al (1999) specifically mentions legislation and providing support for the participation of the people who have disabilities and they should be encouraged and supported to participate in all spheres of the society. Besides this support, another intervention technique is to ensure that the society is void of any structures of segregation and discrimination against disability or individuals with disabilities.

Encouraging increased political organization and extensive debate and discussion in academic and public realms focusing on disability issues.  Since each of the interventions proposed by the studies is targeted to play a particular and vital role in generating positive attitudes to disability in the society, every effort must be made to translate research evidence into actual practice.

Disability and the Right to Full Human Development

All reasonable advances to attaining the full participation of individuals with disabilities incorporate doing away with all the socially constructed obstacles to achieving human potential. These obstacles may take various settings that include environmental, political or psychological constructions. They may also be educational in nature, institutional and social. 

Doing away with these barriers provides the people with disabilities with access to the fundamental conditions needed to operate as independent and responsible people. These essential conditions include education, housing, working conditions, impartial and fair remuneration for work, justice, impartiality and the chance to be involved in civic and other socio-cultural aspects in day-to-day life. This has been documented as a proper way of ensuring socio-economic security and social inclusion of the individuals with disabilities. 

Disabilities in Society

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Social integration is an important aspect of the human development and this can be facilitated through participation of the individuals with disabilities in physical activities and sports. According to Hannon (2010) social integration of the disabled members of the society through such events as sports and physical activities also helps in bridging the cultural boundaries that create barriers in human interaction and bolsters efforts that aim at overcoming prejudice or discrimination in the society against that have diverse characters.  

It is through these social interaction opportunities that the individuals (whether those who have or who don’t have disabilities) can learn social issues such as fair play and teamwork and gain more knowledge on solidarity as a strength. In addition Rosenbaum (2009) while looking at childhood disability and social policies argues that social interactions that involve many members of society coming together help the members of the society to understand and appreciate the needs of the other.

These perspectives echo those taken by O’Toole (2006), who argues that socio-cultural and civic participation are more profound to the aspect of human development than most individuals may just think of culture as a part of going or not going to the movie theater.  O’Toole supports the idea of these interactions being important in supporting human development by arguing that sport is essential in improving education while paving the way for more integration between and among members of the society and cultures.

Disabilities in Society

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Material Barriers

The disabled members of the society may be faced with situations that seem to create a social barrier that hinders them from achieving an objective that would help them in fulfilling their fundamental needs in the society (Swain et al 2004). Studies have showed that social barriers have a very restricting aspect and need to be identified to a particular setting of the external social world such as in the employment environment, in educational setting (institutions of learning), transport and housing among other settings.  

In their study, Connors and Stalker (2003) focused on the barriers that are restricted to learning institutions environment and came up with four barriers they considered significant in impacting the lives of the disabled students negatively. The researchers noted that lack of access to recreational facilities and clubs is a major barrier more so for teenagers. Another factor that plays a major role as a barrier is the transport difficulties. Scarcity of after-school activities that the disabled in learners can creatively engage in is also a major barrier in the learning environment.

Communication being a major element in human interactions, it also becomes a barrier the disabled individuals do not get the support they need to communicate effectively and this  further affects ability to interact hence limiting extent of human social development. Apart from the learning institutions, barriers can also be seen in the employment environment or the workplace (Swain et al 2004).

Practical Application
While the government or the society may come up with social policies to address the plight of people with disabilities and their rights, the society is not stagnant but a constantly changing and dynamic that the relevance of a policy may have to be revised from time to time to incorporate some of the realities that come up as these changes in the society are embraced.

The practical application of effective disability policy is impeded by a number of hurdles. Some of these hurdles relates to the working of the social policies while some challenges lie in the implementation. Coming up with a consistent policy goal has been an obstacle to the effectiveness of the social policy programs that address the rights of the individuals with disabilities. 

Disabilities in Society

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Prior to the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, it was commonly believed and held as wisdom that working-age people who have disabilities were not able to work and therefore not expected to work. The Act however challenged this notion based on a key input from proponents who contended that the chief barrier to employment was the unequal access to jobs and not a worker’s impairment as was commonly construed.

These proponents felt that to say a worker is disabled was to fail o accommodate particular citizens in the society by constructing a social barrier that had multifaceted impact on the society. The impact could be economic, unequal wealth distribution, unequal access to employment that creates huge disparities in income among other factors.

According to the proponents of the ADA, social policies addressing the rights of the disabled in the society had a practical application if everyone is provided equal rights in all spheres of the society because the disability-transfer population would be zero. However, an important and equally disturbing question is whether the disabled members of the society should categorically be expected to work and this question concerns the rights and responsibilities of the disabled people who are of the working-age.

Disabilities in Society

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Social Policy 
The society is highly dynamic and the first step in having a social policy for disability is the creation of a common understanding of the terms and related terms. By having legal definitions of disability and other terms such as impairment, it creates a common point of reference since the society understands disability very differently from the way the policy documents would put.  Therefore, social policy programs have their definitions of disability and these definitions provide boundaries of who is covered under the program.

For instance, Americans with Disabilities Act and Disability Insurance policy both have definitions of disability that allows them to cover a given set of individuals with disabilities. The society’s understanding is different and that is why special efforts must be put into action to ensure negative attitudes to disability are dispelled. For this reason, the government must, from time to time to ascertain that there are measures guaranteeing the social and economic welfare of the disabled members of the society.

Since the advent of the pragmatic social policy and particularly between 1989 and mid 1990 several changes were made that actually showed how disability policy is a changing and dynamic aspect of the society. The government issued three key documents and made other far-reaching proposals targeting the economic welfare of the disabled in the society and their social welfare as well. Nevertheless, the disabled people have not had homogenous reactions to the social policy changes made in past.

For instance, in the United Kingdom, some changes were made in 1990 which aimed at extending the benefits to the disabled people in the UK by proposing to take care of the extra costs of disability and provide other supplementary allowances to the disabled people who work in low-paid work (Hannon 2010). In the same country, there was the caring for peoplepolicy document, which focused on procedures for evaluating “the social care needs of disabled people and the development of care packages set against the background of local authorities’ limited resources” (Hannon 2010).

Disabilities in Society

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In the United States, the rights of the disabled people in the society are protected by the American with Disabilities Act- ADA of 1990.  This Act extended civil rights protection for the disabled people against being discriminated against at the place of work and in employment. The passage of the ADA-1990 characterized a clear effort to transform the spotlight of US disability policy further than income transfers for individuals with disabilities who stayed out of the labor market(Oliver 1999).

The focus was rather put on the employment support for people with disabilities who faced disability-related barriers at their places of work that impeded employment. The point underlying this change in focus was that by eliminating disability- related obstacles to employment, people with disabilities would have increased freedom to opt for work over the benefits receipt that disability attracted.

In spite of these efforts, the biggest influence of federal government social policy on individuals with disabilities is still being felt through the Disability Insurance (DI policy) and through Supplemental Security Income (SSI). While the DI is a social insurance plan that targets the regularly employed members of the society who might experience a disability that could entirely prevent them from working and SSI is a categorical welfare plan that offers benefits to those who are completely prevented from working by their disability; both programs were founded under the Social Security Act (1935) even though SSI was created under  Title XVI while DI under Title II of the Act.

Disabilities in Society

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Despite the good intention of the social policy programs in addressing the issues that affect the disabled people with respect to employment, there have been some arguments that some evidence indicate that these programs have not had considerable impact on improving the employment opportunities of the individuals living with disabilities (e.g. Burkhauser & Daly 2002). The authors have argued using the 1990s data, which shows that employment rate among people of the working-age, plunged while the benefits rolls and expenditures went up. The authors call this circumstantial evidence nevertheless.  

Social policy that targets disability in the US incorporates two main components one of which is the employment protection. The other component comprises transfers. The federal disability transfers are limited only to those individuals who have disabilities that prevent them from functioning in a substantially gainful way. However, ADA (1990) provides a much broader employment protection for those with disabilities and also targets a broader group of individuals with disabilities. It includes even individuals who have the capacity and ability to work in the labor market. The following analysis looks at the social policy in terms of the transfers and employment protection on the basis of the available social policy programs.

DI and SSI

These two policies trace their origins to the 1935 Social Security Act of 1935. The two social policy programs are managed by the Social Security Administration that provides qualifications for eligibility. According to the SSA, “the inability to engage in substantial gainful activity, by reason of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or last at least 12 months” (Social Security Administration, 2000).

Therefore, to qualify for eligibility, an applicant must be impaired such that they cannot in any area that is recognized within the economy and for which hold qualifications with respect to their age, education and experience in the area of work. In addition, the programs only start issuing benefits after a mandatory five–month waiting period. Upon request for application for disability consideration, the officials and the applicant gather sufficient information and then the applicant feels the appropriate form after which the application is passed over to state agency for determination verification of the disability.

The criterion for determining eligibility for disability benefits is homogenous across all the states while the results of the process vary from one state to another. The two programs have different goals even though they share same administration center and eligibility criteria. The object of the Disability Insurance is to offer qualified members with “earnings replacement insurance” when they exit the labor market due to disability. The benefits of this program are provided through a special tax on the payroll and contributed by the employer and the employee. 

Disabilities in Society

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Americans with Disabilities Act- ADA

This Act provides a broader definition of disability hence covers a broader set of individuals with disabilities. According to the Act, disability is considered to be any physical or mental impairment that significantly limits an individual or individuals key life activity, a verification of such an impairment, or being considered as having such an impairment. To this effect, Title I of the Act obliges employers to make reasonable considerations to employees with disabilities except where such accommodations would cause unwarranted hardship on the normal operation of business. 

Conclusion

The results of this research shows that the reaction of the society towards disabilities and individuals with disabilities plays a major role in determining the success in elimination of the social barriers that are constructed by the same society and which impede the achievement of equity within the workplace, political environment, learning environment, civic and social arena.

The research further established that the effective practical application of the social policies and other social initiatives established by non-governmental institutions depends on the seriousness with which the policies are passed and implemented. For the students and learners with disabilities, most of policy changes that need to be made are explored within the literature with reference to the various studies that have focused on the improvement of the welfare of the students and learners with disabilities. The changes include making accommodations within the curriculum and teaching techniques. 

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Reference:

Allyn & Bacon, G. (2007). Contemporary Issue in Curriculum. London: Trade paperback Publisher, 131-167

Bradbury B, Norris K, & Abello D. Socio-economic disadvantage and the prevalence of disability. Social Policy Research Centre. 2001. www.sprc.unsw.edu.au/reports/Report1_01.pdf.

Colver A. (2005). A shared framework and language for childhood disability. Journal of Developmental Medicine Child Neurology, 47(11):780-4.

Connors, C. and Stalker, K (2003) The views and experiences of disabled children and their siblings: a positive outlook. (London, Jessica Kingsley)

Connors, C. and Stalker, K. (2003) Barriers to ‘being’; the psycho-emotional dimension of disability in the lives of disabled children, paper presented at Disability Studies: Theory, Policy and Practice, University of Lancaster, 4-6 September. 

Corrigan, P., Gelb, B. (2006) Three Programs That Use Mass Approaches to Challenge the Stigma of Mental Illness. Journal of  Psychiatric Services, 57, 393-398

Dowling, M. and Dolan, L. (2001) Disabilities – inequalities and the social model. Journal of  Disability & Society, 16 (1), 21-36

Duquette, C., (1998). Teaching Students with Disabilities. Journal of Teaching Technologies 2(3)

Hannon, F (2010). Literature Review on Attitudes towards Disability. Dublin: University College Dublin, University of Westminster Press. 

Hartman, R. (2008). Disabled Students’ Program. New York (NY): Merrill Trade Publishers

Rosenbaum, P (2009) Childhood disability and social policies. British Medical Journal, 338 (1020)

Summer, C. (2007). Student Disability Programs. Texas: Texas Tech University Press.

Swain, J, French, S, Barnes, Colin & Thomas, C (2004).  Disabling Barriers, Enabling Environments. London: Sage Publications

Watson, N., Shakespeare, T., Cunningham-Burley, S., Barnes, C., Corker, M., Davis, J. and Priestley, M. (2000) Life as a disabled child: A qualitative study of young people’s experiences and perspectives:  final report to the ESRC, Department of Nursing Studies, University of Edinburgh

White, M.J., Jackson, V., Gordon, P.J. (2006) Implicit and Explicit Attitudes toward Athletes with disabilities. Journal of Rehabilitation 72 (3) 33-40

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Analysis of the Australian Economy

Australian Economy
Australian Economy

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Business Cycle Properties and Macro Forecasting of the Australian Economy

Executive Summary

Business cycle properties and the macro forecasting of the economy of Australia can be appropriately accomplished utilising the necessary parameters or economic indicators. Hence the ability to effectively use these economic indicators facilitates precise and accurate forecasting of the economy.  Therefore, these economic indicators have been widely used in the process of forecasting the direction which is likely to be taken by a country’s economy.

In this report seven major economic indicators have been considered to enable forecasting of the Australian economy using judgemental approach. These economic indicators include: inflation rate; private final consumption; inventory investment; gross fixed investment, nominal exchange rate between Australia and the United States; unemployment rate as well as labour productivity. The utilisation of these economic indicators has played a significant role to facilitate forecasting of the Australian economy through their keen evaluation and detrending. Analysis Australian Economy

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Introduction

Conducting effective analysis of economic indicators of any country is one of the most appropriate ways of forecasting the future performance of such economy. This approach has often been used to predict the expected performance of the Australian economy in future for quite some time (Fisher, Otto and Voss, 1996). Hence the practice of utilising business cycle properties in the forecasting of the economy in Australia is widespread.

In particular, three approaches are essentially used in the forecasting of a country’s macroeconomics such as: judgemental forecasting, statistical forecasting, and model forecasting. However, judgemental forecasting which is going to be used in this report analysis involves gathering various kinds of data and information from official sources, to aid future macroeconomic forecasting activity on the basis of one’s informal judgement concerning the way in a country’s economy works (Evans, 2009). 

Analysis Australian Economy

However, there are certain properties of business cycles which enable them to be effectively used in combination with other economic indicators in the forecasting of the economy (Evans, 2009). For instance, the business cycle properties used in facilitating the forecasting of the Australian economy include: aggregate economic activity fluctuations; business cycles are not periodic but recurrent; business cycles contraction/recession and expansion/boom meaning they have a trough and a peak both of which act as the turning points; business cycles are indicative of economic activity persistence and also business cycles have comovements of many macro variables (Edey, 5).

Thus, the significance of conducting this empirical analysis of the Australian economy is to reiterate the fact that as an economist whether in the government or private sector, often analysis of economic information, data and policies will be inevitable in order to enable the process of making informed managerial or economic decisions (Fisher, Otto and Voss, 1996). 

Therefore, this report will specifically consider certain economic indicators as means of forecasting Australian economy such as inflation rate, private final consumption, inventory investment, gross fixed investment, nominal exchange rate between Australia and the United States, unemployment rate and labour productivity. 

Analysis

Inflation rate

Analysis Australian Economy

Table 1: Analytical measures of consumer price inflation (CPI)

QuarterlyThe rate of quarterly consumer price inflation (CPI)
Mar 19960.4
Jun 19960.7
Sep 19960.3
Dec 19960.2
Mar 19970.2
Jun 1997-0.3
Sep 1997-0.4
Dec 19970.3
Mar 19980.3
Jun 19980.6
Sep 19980.2
Dec 19980.5
Mar 1999-0.1
Jun 19990.4
Sep 19990.9
Dec 19990.8
Mar 20003.8
Jun 20003.7
Sep 20000.3
Dec 20001.1
Mar 20010.8
Jun 20010.3
Sep 20010.9
Dec 20010.9
Mar 20020.7
Jun 20020.7
Sep 20021.3
Dec 20020.0
Mar 20030.6
Jun 20030.5
Sep 20030.9
Dec 20030.5
Mar 20040.9
Jun 20040.5
Sep 20040.4
Dec 20040.8
Mar 20050.7
Jun 20050.6
Sep 20050.9
Dec 20050.5
Mar 20060.9
Jun 20061.6
Sep 20060.9
Dec 2006-0.1
Mar 20070.1
Jun 20071.2
Sep 2007-0.3
Dec 20070.1
Mar 20080.5
Jun 20081.0
Sep 20080.5
Dec 20080.9
Mar 20090.6
Jun 20090.7
Sep 20090.4
Dec 20091.6
Mar 20100.9
Jun 20100.6
Sep 20100.0
Dec 20100.1
Mar 20110.5
Jun 20110.9
Sep 20110.6
Dec 20110.0
Mar 20120.1
Jun 20120.5
Sep 20120.4

Source: The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Inventory investment 

Inventory investment in the business cycle refers to the inventories as all materials such as finished goods that are business owned and work in progress, whether at business locations or elsewhere.  The business holds these items anticipating selling a product.  However, inventory investment is usually regarded as an additional contribution to GDP. Fluctuations in inventories which an often phenomenon plays a significant role in the amplification and exacerbation of the business cycle as well as continuing to significantly affect GDP growth   negatively at times of economic downturn (Evans, 2009).

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 Gross fixed investment

Gross fixed investment involves the entry records totalling to business spending based on fixed assets, such as machinery, factories, dwellings, equipment and raw materials inventories, which are essential in providing the basis for production in future (Evans, 2009). Therefore, gross fixed investment is measured gross asset’s depreciation including investment that is necessary as a mere replacement of scrapped or worn-out capital.

Table 2: Gross fixed investment rate and percentage 

YearInvestmentPer cent Change
199624.318-1.91 %
199624.3180.00 %
199723.855-1.90 %
199723.8550.00 %
199825.988.91 %
199825.980.00 %
199926.1290.57 %
199926.1290.00 %
200024.803-5.07 %
200024.8030.00 %
200123.19-6.50 %
200123.190.00 %
200224.8257.05 %
200224.8250.00 %
200326.6187.22 %
200326.6180.00 %
200427.0381.58 %
200427.0380.00 %
200527.8553.02 %
200527.8550.00 %
200627.549-1.10 %
200627.5490.00 %
200729.2596.21 %
200729.2590.00 %
200829.5410.96 %
200829.5410.00 %
200927.853-5.71 %
200927.8530.00 %
201027.592-0.94 %
201027.5920.00 %

Source: The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

 Nominal exchange rate between Australia and the United States dollar

The nominal exchange rate is the value at which a currency of one country exchanges with that of the other country. For instance the nominal exchange rate between the Australian and United States dollar is the value at which the Australian dollar exchanges with that of the United States. The nominal exchange is an economic indicator because it implies the strength of the local currency against other global currencies.

The higher the demand of the local currency, the higher the value meaning the economy is stronger.  As shown in the table below outlining the quarterly exchange rates between the Australian and United States dollar from the year 1996 to present it is evident that there is significant variation even though there is a gradual progressive decline in the value of the Australian dollar against the united stated dollar. This may imply a weakening of the Australian economy against that of the United States. 

Table 3: Exchange rate between Australian dollar and the US dollar

QuarterlyExchange rate between Australian dollar and the US dollar
Mar 19960.7793
Jun 19960.7890
Sep 19960.7924
Dec 19960.7965
Mar 19970.7865
Jun 19970.7455
Sep 19970.7198
Dec 19970.6527
Mar 19980.6634
Jun 19980.6135
Sep 19980.5945
Dec 19980.6139
Mar 19990.6293
Jun 19990.6596
Sep 19990.6536
Dec 19990.6538
Mar 20000.6055
Jun 20000.5986
Sep 20000.5433
Dec 20000.5540
Mar 20010.4890
Jun 20010.5075
Sep 20010.4923
Dec 20010.5106
Mar 20020.5316
Jun 20020.5648
Sep 20020.5435
Dec 20020.5662
Mar 20030.6036
Jun 20030.6674
Sep 20030.6801
Dec 20030.7500
Mar 20040.7589
Jun 20040.6889
Sep 20040.7147
Dec 20040.7790
Mar 20050.7719
Jun 20050.7636
Sep 20050.7615
Dec 20050.7337
Mar 20060.7159
Jun 20060.7433
Sep 20060.7480
Dec 20060.7913
Mar 20070.8070
Jun 20070.8487
Sep 20070.8827
Dec 20070.8816
Mar 20080.9180
Jun 20080.9626
Sep 20080.7996
Dec 20080.6928
Mar 20090.6873
Jun 20090.8114
Sep 20090.8801
Dec 20090.8969
Mar 20100.9159
Jun 20100.8523
Sep 20100.9667
Dec 20101.0163
Mar 20111.0334
Jun 20111.0739
Sep 20110.9781
Dec 20111.0156
Mar 20121.0402
Jun 20121.0191
Sep 20121.0404

Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

 Unemployment rate

The Australia’s unemployment rate which can be seasonally adjusted increased to 5.4 per cent in September, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) results that were released on October 11. However, there has also not been a widespread unemployment rate in Australia and as ABS reports in September there was an increase in the number of people employed from 14,500 to 11,511,900 as a result of full-time employment increase.

Moreover, there was also an increased in the unemployed people by 38,800 in September only. Therefore, the ABS monthly aggregate of the number of hours worked, it is evident that a considerable number of hours are used at work at work places in both part time and full time employment places.  In addition, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2012) the labour fore participation rate which can be seasonally adjusted increased to 65.2 per cent in the month of September.

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Table 4: Australia unemployment rate

QuarterlyAustralia unemployment rate
Mar 19968.2
Jun 19968
Sep 19968.3
Dec 19968.4
Mar 19978.4
Jun 19978.2
Sep 19978.1
Dec 19977.9
Mar 19987.9
Jun 19987.7
Sep 19987.3
Dec 19987.1
Mar 19996.7
Jun 19997
Sep 19996.5
Dec 19996.6
Mar 20006.2
Jun 20006
Sep 20006.3
Dec 20006.5
Mar 20016.9
Jun 20016.8
Sep 20017
Dec 20016.4
Mar 20026.5
Jun 20026.3
Sep 20026.2
Dec 20026.1
Mar 20036.1
Jun 20035.8
Sep 20035.5
Dec 20035.4
Mar 20045.5
Jun 20045.4
Sep 20045.1
Dec 20045.2
Mar 20055
Jun 20055.1
Sep 20055.1
Dec 20054.9
Mar 20064.8
Jun 20064.7
Sep 20064.6
Dec 20064.4
Mar 20074.3
Jun 20074.2
Sep 20074.2
Dec 20074.1
Mar 20084.2
Jun 20084.3
Sep 20084.6
Dec 20085.7
Mar 20095.8
Jun 20095.7
Sep 20095.3
Dec 20095.4
Mar 20105.1
Jun 20105.1
Sep 20104.9
Dec 20104.9
Mar 20114.9
Jun 20115.2
Sep 20115.1
Dec 20115.2
Mar 20125.1
Jun 20125.1
Sep 20125.4

Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

 Labour productivity

Improved labour productivity usually leads to a strong gross domestic product (GDP) result. For instance, in the second quarter of 2011 there was a tremendous increase in the labour productivity in Australia by 1.5% leading to an adjustment of the inflation. Thus labour productivity can be described as generated output in a single hour of work which is being undertaken.

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According to Australian Bureau of Statistics (2012) from which the data used to generate graph below was obtained the month of June 2011 recorded a tremendous fell of national labour productivity which represented the second worst annual performance of the labour productivity since the year 1996. A high labour productivity implies increased production at reduced cost a phenomenon which is very appropriate for the economy growth.

Private final consumption

Private financial consumption and especially the private financial consumption expenditure have been widely used as an essential economy indicator. Thus, it can be used in forecasting where the economy is headed. 

Table 4: Private consumption expenditure volume index in Australia

PeriodPrivate consumption expenditure volume index in Australia
2005-06122.3
2006-07127.2
2007-08131.9
Seasonally adjusted
2006-2007DecemberMachJune126.9
128.3
129.0
2007-2008SeptemberDecemberMarch130.4
132.0
132.7
2008-2009JuneSeptemberDecember132.5
132.6
132.7

Source: The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the business cycle properties in addition to the judgemental forecasting approach utilised in this report can be effectively used to predict the future economy performance in a precise manner. 

Bibliography

Australian Bureau of Statistics, (2012), Australian Economic Indicators. Retrieved on 15th October 2012 from:  http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/mf/1350.0?opendocument#from-banner=LN

Edey, M.  “The Economy in Late 2008: Conditions and Prospects”, Australia & Japan Economic Outlook Conference 2008, Sydney – 19 November, http://www.rba.gov.au/Speeches/2008/sp_ag_191108.html

Evans, W. (2009), “We have revised our growth and rate forecast”, unpublished report by Westpac, 28 January.

Fisher, L., Otto, G. and G. Voss (1996), “Australian Business Cycle Facts”, Australian Economic Papers, 35(67), 300-320.

Reserve Bank of Australia, (2012), Statistical tables. Retrieved on 15th October 2012 from: http://www.rba.gov.au/statistics/tables/index.html#prices_inflation

Watson, M. “Macroeconomic Forecasting”, entry for The New Palgrave Dictionary, 2nd edition, edited by Lawrence Blume and Steven Durlauf.

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Internet like a native language

Internet like a native language
Internet like a native language

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Internet like a native language

Manifestation of Age Disparity on Internet Absorption Differences 

That people born since 1991 are not like their elders is more evident in the way they use internet for communication, socialising and even in ecommerce compared to their parents’ generation. Although the manifestations of this trend are very evident today, the next 10 years are going to be explosive in terms of what this generation will be able to exploit the internet like a native language.  

Internet like a native language

One of the key manifestations will be the time spent on internet, it will not only fashionable for that generation to use internet enabled phones but it is indispensable as well. The peer pressure, the desire to be seen as trendy and up to date and the social media frenzy are just some of the reasons for the big amounts the generation spends online[1].  

In addition, the younger generation will tend to take up careers that are internet related such as e-commerce since they will find them easy compared to their elders. In addition to the fact that most work places are using internet integrated systems, even the system of education in the colleges and schools they will attend will be based on e-learning, something which will  leave them with no other option other than just remaining relevant and up to speed with the internet dependent lives.

Internet like a native language

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Bibliography

Rowland, Wade. Spirit of thttps://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwie34HBprryAhVJPcAKHXCxBv0QFnoECCUQAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.waderowland.com%2Fspirit%2F&usg=AOvVaw2Vv7tNQL1cBtKUsOTH3AxEhe Web: The age of information from telegraph to Internet. Markham, ON: Thomas Allen Publishers, 2006.

[1] W Rowland, Spirit of the Web: The age of information from telegraph to Internet. Markham, ON: Thomas Allen Publishers, 2006, P. 35-40.

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Health Record Policies

Health Record Policies
Health Record Policies

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Health Record Policies

Evaluate the two policies in the attached “Health Record Policies” by doing the following:
 
Discuss what information should be included in an addendum pertaining to a shadow chart.

Generally, an addendum includes amendments or corrections in the primary medical records.This must bear the client’s signature, the amendment date and the amendments themselves. This avails the information that was missing at time of original entry.

Discuss how information technology staff can help decrease incidents of security breaches.

Security breaches especially related to data cause negative consequences for healthcare institutions, their clients and employees. The information technology staff should take preventive measures to avoid this. Encrypting confidential data is essential. All computers in the organization must have password protection. Also a backup of all data must be kept to avoid loss of data in case of data loss.

Thirdly, controls must be placed on data access and storage to avoid unauthorized access. Disposal of outdated data and equipment should be done carefully, and there should be regulation on use of laptops and other portable storage media and devices (Pendrak & Ericson, 1998).

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Discuss one situation from Montana Code 41-1-402 (2a through 2d) that may result in criminal liability to the organization if not followed.

A situation that may result in criminal liability for a healthcare institution is if for example an abortion is procured on a minor from a stable family and under the care of her parents without the parent’s consent.

Summarize how HIPAA defines criminal liability.

HIPAA has put a penalty for any unauthorized access to a patient’s medical records with or without knowledge of this law. Employees in healthcare institutions can also be charged with breaching the confidentiality of patients without authority to do so. 
Explain which part of 2a through 2d of Montana Code 41-1-402 would directly impact actions of clinical staff.
            Part 2 (d) would impact actions of the clinician. If a minor needs treatment for STDs, drug and substance abuse, then if the clinician accepts to offer treatment, they are also mandated to offer counseling the minor or refer them to a counselor.

Health Record Policies

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 Discuss one situation from Montana Code 50-16-603x (1 through 7) specific to health record identification that may result in a legal claim against the organization if not followed.

 If a healthcare institution uses pictures of their former patients for its advertisement on the media without written consent from the former clients.
Develop a confidentiality policy statement (suggested length of 1–2 sentences) using either Montana Code 41-1-402 or Montana Code 50-16-603.

Disclosure of a patient’s presence: This should not be disclosed to unauthorized parties, even in a manner that would reveal nature of disease without the consent of the patient as it will be a breach of confidentiality. 

Compare three points in the Montana codes to HIPAA laws as they refer to release of information.

50-16-542. 1(a) Release of information will be denied if the healthcare provider thinks it will cause negative effects on the recipient. 50-16-542. 1(c) if the information will cause danger to the recipient’s safety and 50-16-542. 2(a) if the minor has a mental condition. All these show that information can only be released if it will not cause any adverse effects on the patient.

Health Record Policies

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Develop a release of information policy statement (suggested length of 1–2 sentences) using either Montana Code 50-16-541 or Montana Code 50-16-542 for a policy book.

Releasing information of patient over the phone of fax: This is not encouraged as the there is no evidence provided to show that the caller or fax destination are eligible recipients of the patient information.

References

Pendrak, R. F., & Ericson, R. P. (1998). Information technologies need to protect patient confidentiality.Healthcare Financial Management, 52(10), 66-8. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/196382179?accountid=45049;

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VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS
VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

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VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

The Victorian equal employment opportunity law stipulates volunteers’ rights. The law states that, volunteers in not for profit and non-governmental organizations should have equal protection against harassment and damages as the other paid employees. Volunteers are important recourses for NGOs and NFP organizations. Most of these charitable organizations are run and managed by volunteers (Taylor, 2011).

They offer their services free of charge to the organizations that deliver charitable programs to disadvantaged countries and communities. They have no interest in financial compensation. Most of them derive personal satisfaction from offering their services free of charge to charitable organizations. The importance of volunteers is attached to their contribution towards achieving an organization’s mission and objectives. According to Ralph (2006), qualified volunteers should be retained through motivation. They can be encouraged by training incentives and rewards.

CHARACTERISTICS OF VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

 Volunteers are very important resources for NFP and NGO’s. They are expected to deliver their services like the other employees.  They are not entitled to any payment by the organization. There services are considered to be of good faith and charitable (Farmer & Fredor 1999). The fact that they are not entitled to monetary compensation, does not oblige inefficiency and lack of commitment. They work voluntarily, they cannot be forced to work, they can stop their services any time and the organization can dismiss them any time.

Volunteers should be willing to learn and train in order to acquire the necessary skills and qualification required in the organization. Choudhory (2010) found out that, most of them have different professional backgrounds that may not correspond to the nature of the organizations work. They should be flexible to acquire appropriate skills and experiences that are necessary through training. 

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Taylor (2001) states that, volunteers do not have tenure of employment and when unproductive they are dismissed by the organization. The organizations objectives should be achieved through volunteers who should be willing and are committed to provide their services to the respective organization. They should be flexible in delivering their duties, some organizations work in risky and hardship areas, these calls for volunteer resilience and endurance.

Volunteers should be productive, efficient and motivated in carrying out their duties. Transparency and accountability is an important aspect in volunteering, they should be able deliver their services in a diligent and honest manner (Boraas, 2003).

Agreements between the volunteers and the organizations are not legally binding. The organization is not obligated to act in accordance to the volunteers’ specifications and the volunteers have no legal obligations with the organization. However, some organizations provide insurance cover for the volunteers, such covers shield against work related injuries and liabilities. In an occurrence of losses or damages, such organizations are liable to cover for the respective damages. 

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            According to Vitner & Yodfat (2008), organizations may award volunteers minimal payments as incentives but the organization is free from obligations. They can be entitled for allowances, rewards and should be reimbursed for their out of pocket expenses. They can also receive non monetary benefits like free air tickets and free access to services provided by the organization. Volunteers are entitled to work in good working conditions and in safe environments like the other paid employees. The equal opportunity Act protects their rights. 

These charitable organizations have their responsibilities to fulfill. Qualified volunteers with proper skills, experiences and interests should be recruited so as to reduce turnover rates. The organization should provide proper training and orientation to volunteers. Proper induction facilitation should be enhanced so as to enable volunteers to work towards achieving organizational objectives.

RECRUITMENT OF VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

Non for Profit and Non governmental Organizations have significant intentions of attracting and recruiting qualified volunteers.  In order to establish long- term productivity and relationship between the volunteers and the organization, volunteers should have appropriate skills, interests and qualities that correspond with the objectives and mission of the organization.  

Attracting and recruiting volunteers with these characteristics, ensures good performance, such volunteers have high chances of being retained. Once qualified volunteers have been recruited, it is important to specify and delegate duties, responsibilities, expectations and tasks between the organization and the volunteers.

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Recruitment of volunteers depend on the organizations specifications regarding skills and competences. Background checks are also considered during recruitment.  Background checks vary in accordance with the nature of the work the volunteer will be entitled.  Volunteers working with children, elderly and disabled individuals should have distinct background check. The nature of the organization should correspond with the background checks.

 It was established by Bruney (1999) that during recruitment, a written agreement is not necessary. However an agreement stipulating the roles and responsibilities is initiated between the organization and the volunteers. These will help to resolve any disputes concerning obligations between the volunteer and the organization. An organization should not take anyone as a volunteer if it believes he is incompetent and cannot perform the required tasks.

A volunteer may take action against the organization if he is discriminated in respect to personal characteristics. The Victorian Equal opportunity and Human rights commission stipulate laws that protect the volunteers against discrimination.

TRAINING VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

Training of volunteers is very important in ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. Most volunteers do not have a background of professionalism in their assigned line of duties.  Training is necessary towards achieving important organizational objectives. The aims of training volunteers include; maintaining long term motivation and orientation of duties and responsibilities to the volunteers. Volunteers are equipped with tools, experiences and exposure in their line of duty, further more leadership lessons and skills are facilitated through training (Courtney 2001).

Training volunteers is an aspect of supporting, attracting, rewarding and retaining volunteers. It enhances improvement in performance and quality in service delivery. Volunteers from different backgrounds with diverse needs and duties are catered for through training and proper orientation. Companies that train their volunteers attract potential volunteers; this is because motivation is provided through training and careers development. An organization that trains its volunteers is committed to supports its volunteer’s welfare and needs for career development. 

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 According to Johnson (2007), volunteer training involves either formal or informal training. The training is administered through out the volunteers’ lifecycle. Informal training involves induction programs while formal training involves college training for a specific period of time. Organizations train their volunteers according to their specific needs. Important aspects to be included in training include, determining the training needs, establishing the training objectives, designing, implementing and evaluating the training program.

DESIGNING A TRAINING PROGRAM FOR VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

A training program should be designed according to the organizations’ needs. Important aspects to be considered when designing training program include, determining the type of training to be administered, identifying the facilitators, determining the content of the program, sourcing for the appropriate materials and determining the setting through which the training will be facilitated. Settings for training may include, on job training, classroom or in the field training (Zullo, 2011).

Individual volunteer needs should be considered when designing training programs. Suitable training should be administered to different groups of people. Younger and older volunteers should be trained differently according to their needs and duties. Volunteer’s diverse cultural settings should also be considered (Nagbhushanam & Sridhar, 2010).

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Implementation of the training is the most important stage of volunteer training. The training contents should be appropriate and to be delivered effectively. Facilitation and coordination of the training is very important because it determines the outcome of the program. The success or failure of the program will be determined by carrying out an evaluation on the effectiveness of the program.

Evaluation questionnaires are usually used to collect feedback from the program participants. Criticisms, suggestions and proposals are obtained from the evaluation.  According to Thomas (2007), criticisms from the participants can be used for continuous improvement in future trainings. A strategy can be formulated from the strengths and weaknesses established from the program. 

It was observed by Allhyari (2000) that, evaluation should be carried out to determine if the volunteer target competency was achieved.  It is very important in determining the effectiveness and reliability of the program. Volunteer training should be an on-going process. Volunteer’s skills and competencies should be frequently updated to suit the rising needs of the organization. Through training volunteers will be able to achieve career development and leadership skills. 

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MOTIVATION AND RETENTION OF VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS

Not for Profit and Non-governmental organizations should develop strategies that will enable them retain and motivate their volunteers. The success of such organizations highly depends on the workforce which majorly constitutes the volunteers. Many NFP and NGO’s have experienced a significant percentage in losing volunteers. This emerging trend has necessitated the need for motivation, so as to retain volunteers. Elshaug & Metzer (2001) established that, most volunteers serve briefly in their respective organizations.

Such organizations fail to provide sufficient motivation to retain the volunteers. Recent studies show that older volunteers most likely serve longer than younger volunteers. The younger volunteers have 20% lower retention rates than adult volunteers.  The retention rate in adults is high up to 69.9%. 

Various organizations employ different motivation strategies. It has been established that proper recruitment and motivation strategies leads to successful strategies for retention. Retention is affected by barriers and factors which discourage or encourage volunteers. Major barriers that discourage volunteers include risky and costly nature of their work, lack of appropriate skills and experience, insufficient time, poor working conditions, poor reward systems and lack of personal and career development (Odenheirmer, 2011). 

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Volunteer retention can be achieved through various strategies. Frequent training is a strategy that motivates volunteers. Their personal and career development needs are enhanced through training.  Another strategy to ensure volunteer retention relates to attraction and recruitment strategies, the recruitment process directly relates to retention. Recruiting interested and qualified volunteers improves the retention rates. Other important factors that contribute to volunteer retention include proper skills experience and qualifications, improved reward system, flexibility, recognition, leadership roles and career development. 

Low volunteer retention is a vital problem that such organizations face. High rates of volunteer turnover affect the capabilities of these organizations in service delivery. In order for these organizations to achieve their missions and goals volunteer retention must be achieved. Proper working relationships should be enhanced between the volunteers and the organization (Ralph, 2006).

VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS: VOLUNTEERING AND ITS BENEFITS

Vitner & Yodfat (2008) argued that, despite the current trend of low volunteer retention rates, enormous benefits can be derived from volunteering. Individuals are able to acquire more skills and career development through volunteering. One of the greatest benefits of volunteering is the impact it creates on the community. Charitable services and activities offered by NFP and NGO’s are aimed at improving the status of the community. Most of these organizations’ activities address social and development needs in the community. The disadvantaged countries and poor nations are the major targets of these organizations.

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Volunteers are able to expand their social skills, make friends and create networks through wide interactions with the communities. Some individuals derive personal fulfillment and satisfaction through community service. These individuals attach themselves to the society and are determined to impact positively on the society. Such individuals desire to give back and may commit their own resources to improve the community. Recognition and appreciation in the community provides personal satisfaction (Zullo, 2011).

Career development is enhanced through volunteering. Individuals are able to acquire important work place skills such as problem solving skills, teamwork, project management and task management through voluntary exposures.  Individuals with these qualities have high employability rates and a competitive advantage in career development. Professional experience is acquired through volunteering. Such experiences are useful in acquiring long-term professional career. Furthermore, volunteering may lead to a well paying job in similar organizations.

VOLUNTEERS IN NFP AND NGOS: BARRIERS TO VOLUNTEERING

Recent studies show that voluntary services have declined drastically. The perception that volunteering is charitable and has no monetary benefits has prevented individuals from volunteering their services in charitable organizations. The most significant barrier against volunteering is lack of time. Individuals who could be willing to volunteer are committed in their families or in other activities (Boraas, 2003). The notion that volunteering requires a long-term commitment is another challenge. However, most individuals dismiss voluntary work because it has no monetary benefits.

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 Economic conditions and needs have severely affected voluntary work. Voluntary work has no monetary benefits yet economic conditions are worsening. There is high demand for money, which dictates the preference for individuals to work in paying institutions. The impact of economic changes has forced employees to multi-task with various employers.  Such employees hardly find time to volunteer in charitable organizations.

Voluntary work is associated with lots of risks and costs. Some organizations work in hardship and risky areas. Volunteers are exposed to risks of injury, death, financial loss or legal action.  These risks discourage potential volunteers from joining charitable organizations. Thomas (2007) observed that, technological advancement has impacted on voluntary work. Potential young volunteers spend most of their time operating gadgets. They prefer to try out new things and very entrepreneurial. The young generation lack commitment in voluntary work because it is very involving and have no substantial benefits.

Odenheirmer (2011) suggest that, charitable organizations should implement strategies to reduce the barriers to volunteering.   Organizations should reimburse volunteers out of pocket expenses and should be able to provide incentives such as transport allowances among other incentives. Allocating roles according to individual’s preferences and interests is another strategy.

Adequate training and support should be provided to volunteers as well as their needs should be considered. In the case of organizations administering charity in risky areas, insurance covers should be secured for volunteers. The covers will shield against any losses and damages that may arise due to the nature of the work.

Charitable organizations should initiate programs that will facilitate successful volunteers to be absorbed in to long-term career opportunities. This strategy is very effective in attracting and retaining volunteers. They will be able to gain professional experience in their line of careers giving them competitive advantage as compared to the other potential recruits.

This strategy addresses their long- term objective of professionalism and career development. Organizations that implement these strategies are advantaged in volunteer retention. When volunteers are motivated and satisfied, the retention rates will be high (Courtney, 2001).

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In conclusion, volunteers are very important resources in the community. They constitute the major work force in charitable organizations. The fact that they are not entitled to any monetary benefits does not authorize any neglect, mishandling, harassment and frustrations on the volunteers. Organizations should adopt appropriate attraction and recruitment strategies in order to draw many volunteers. Proper motivation and retention strategies should be employed to reduce volunteer turnover rates.

   REFERENCES 

Allahyari, R. A. (2000). Visions of charity: Volunteer workers and moral community. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.

Boraas, S. (2003). Volunteerism in the United States. Monthly Labor Review, 126(8), 3-21

Brudney, J. L. (1999). The effective use of volunteers: Best practices for the public sector. Law and Contemporary Problems, 62(4), 219.

Choudhury, E. (2010). Attracting and managing volunteers in local government. The Journal of Management Development, 29(6), 592-603. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/02621711011046558

Courtney, R. (2001). Strategic management for voluntary nonprofit organizations. New York: Routledge.

Elshaug, C., & Metzer, J. (2001). Personality attributes of volunteers and paid workers engaged in similar occupational tasks. The Journal of Social Psychology, 141(6), 752-63. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/199837239?accountid=45049; 

Farmer, S.M., & Fedor, D.B. (1999). Volunteer participation and withdrawal. Nonprofit Management and Leadership, 9(4), 349-368.

Johnson, J. A. (2007). Getting and staying involved: What motivates volunteers in a non-profit organization? Capella University). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, , 111-n/a. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/304720694?accountid=45049; 

Nagabhushanam, M., & Sridhar, M. (2010). Voluntary Organizations – Growth, Trends and Challenges. Vilakshan: The XIMB Journal of Management, 7(2), 143-166.

Odenheimer, M. (2011). Integrating Volunteers In- to Long-Term Sustainable Development. Journal Of Jewish Communal Service, 87(1/2), 81-87. 

Ralph, C. (2006) “Recognising current competencies of volunteers in emergency service organisations”, Journal of Workplace Learning, Vol. 18 Iss: 7/8, pp.451 – 463

Taylor, A. (2011). Volunteers are a neglected resource. Third Sector, (672), 18-18. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/887547857?accountid=45049; 

Thomas, C., Newell, J. N., Baral, S. C., & Byanjankar, L. (2007). The contribution of volunteers to a successful community-orientated tuberculosis treatment centre in an urban setting in nepal. Journal of Health Organization and Management, 21(6), 554-72. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14777260710834346

Vitner, G., Shalom, V., & Yodfat, A. (2008). Training volunteers for the elderly in israel. Industrial and Commercial Training, 40(4), 216-225. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/00197850810876271

Zullo, R. (2011). Labor unions and charity. Industrial & Labor Relations Review, 64(4), 699-711.

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Chapultepec Declaration Essay

Chapultepec Declaration
Chapultepec Declaration

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Chapultepec Declaration 

Democracy connotes freedom. A core principle of freedom is access to information and ability to speak, write, publish mainstream and alternative views. Many of the countries to which you all trace your roots, and have subsequently visited or lived will have greater or lesser degrees of this fundamental right.

Chapultepec Declaration

Rights as we see them used in the Chapultepec Declaration are claimed as universal freedoms that are actually legally-defined and enforceable. This declaration is not what people think they deserve, nor is it what governments as some disembodied power structure ‘give’ at their discretion.

Chapultepec Declaration

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The Chapultepec Declaration: How its Authors Equate Press Freedom and Democracy

In 1994, the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) held a summit at Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City. The convention sought to promote freedom of the press. What came out of the comprehensive discussion was the Chapultepec Declaration. In it, delegates proclaimed that freedom of expression, inclusive of a free press, was a necessary ingredient in promoting liberty. From the Chapultepec Declaration, there are numerous ways in which its authors equate press freedom and democracy (BBC Monitoring International Reports, 2002).

The declaration’s preamble reads that individuals cannot exercise other forms of freedom if the freedom of press access to information is curbed. When the media operates unobstructed, as the document states, there is the surfacing of courage to ask for information, to disseminate it without restraints, to question it without fear, and to promote free exchange of ideas and views. Members of the public sphere cannot therefore exercise other rights if the freedom of press is held back (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

Chapultepec Declaration

The declaration compels authorities to avail in a timely and reasonable fashion the information generated by public offices. In addition, the law permits journalists to conceal their sources of information. What this means is that citizens of any given state need to know how their governments operate if they are to fully benefit from it. The press bridges the knowledge gap between bureaucrats who make decisions on their behalf, and the subjects of that particular state.

Any act of corruption and mismanagement of funds by policymakers often go unraveled if the press is barred from access to such information. Timely issue of information, or giving news which is not stale, is more trustworthy thus the need for fresh news. It raises the authenticity of such news stories, making them more credible. For security purposes, journalists should be allowed to hide the identity of sources who desire anonymity, since their lives may be in danger after whistle blowing or revealing the injustices committed by the state (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

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Chapultepec Declaration

In a democratic state, hindering press access to information through acts of murder, kidnappings, destruction of their facilities or even intimidating journalists, are counterproductive to the realization of liberty. This is because such harassments scare citizens of any state from accessing information and productively participating in governmental operations.  That is why the declaration recommends the detention and punishment of government officers who do that, since harassing or intimidating journalists encourages impunity (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

The declaration adds that prior censorships, restrictions to the circulation of information, and managing of media by authorities are direct ways of infringing on the freedom of press access to information. Imposition of such hindrances by authorities limits liberty, which in turn infringes on the citizen’s rights to be aware of their government’s operations, the injustices committed, and corruption. Citizens at the grassroots level heavily depend on the press for information. Thus barring or restricting journalists’ movements in pursuit of information amounts to the violation of their liberty (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

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It is unethical and illegal of sources to favor journalists or media houses by means of assigning them radio frequencies, funding their operations or favoring them because of positive news coverage. These deeds lead to the publishing of biased news. Biased news coverage of sources limits citizens’ right to know the truth. For instance, a corrupt source of information may give journalists gifts so as to hide the truth from public notice. That is an act which hampers liberty (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

Chapultepec Declaration

The credibility of the press correlates with its commitment to reporting factual information, being accurate, fair and objective. In the absence of such principles, the press is seen as biased. Journalists should therefore be able to distinguish news from advertizing. To report advertisements as news would be to encourage publicity of such organizations thus infringement of liberty (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

Furthermore, the act insulates journalists from being punished by the state as a result of unraveling the truth. When journalists fear for their lives, they cannot unveil injustices and acts corruption committed by the ruling class (Mark & Fitzgerald, 1999).

All said, the Chapultepec Declaration will forever be remembered in the field of development journalism. For it has provided the impetus for exercising other rights, otherwise unattainable. Thus the most basic way of distinguishing democracy from autocracy is press access to information.

References

BBC Monitoring International Reports. (2002, May). St. Kits and Nevis signs Chapultepec 

Declaration. BBC Monitoring International Reports, 1-2. Retrieved Oct 2, 2012, from  http://www.ebscohost.com

Mark, Fitzgerald. (1999). Declaration of Chapultepec. Journal of Communication, Journalism, Printing, Advertizing and Public Relations, 132 (18) 1-2. Retrieved Oct 2, 2012, from  http://search.proquest.com/docview/194311250?accountid=45049

Chapultepec Declaration

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Domestic policy objectives Essay

Domestic policy objectives
Domestic policy objectives

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Domestic policy objectives 

The Theodore Roosevelt, a Republican, and Woodrow Wilson, a Democrat, both had the same domestic policy objectives in the first two decades of the 20th century. The program was called Progressivism and the ultimate goal was to clear up corruption in all phases of the economy and the government and to give the working man a better chance to advance.

Their methods and motivations, however, were different. Discuss the problems faced by the Progressives and the manner in which they attempted to rectify the problems. Compare these two presidents as far as their accomplishments. Make sure you include the following in your answer: Muckrakers, Northern Securities Case, Hepburn Act, Clayton Anti Trust Act, initiative, referendum, recall.

Domestic policy objectives 

Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilsons remain successful progressives even though they have been greatly criticized. Their commitment, struggles and efforts to ensure national reforms continue to be felt even today. The progressives believed that it was possible for man to improve his living conditions. They rejected the church as a solution to the social and economic problems of their era.

Their main goal was to have the government participate in ending corruption, public involvement in the political process and active involvement of the government in solving social and economic problems. They also aimed at take control of public utilities like the railroads, trusts and to pass legislation that would protect consumers, labor groups and the minorities.

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Domestic policy objectives 

In solving these problems, the ‘Muckrakers’ were of great influence in publicly exposing the social evils that had prevailed. These writers/journalists exposed the horrors of urban slums, poverty, poor working conditions, child labor, and other evils. This served as an eye-opener to the public to support the call for reforms by the progressives (Roark, Johnson, Cohen, Stage, & Lawson, 2000).

Problems in urban areas were addressed by establishment of settlement houses by social workers to protect the poor. The problem of child labor proved hard to solve as their efforts were thwarted by the courts. The labor regulation problem was solved when the progressives fought to ensure government’s role in workplace regulation. Since then, government oversight has expanded and accepted as part of American Industry.

Problems in food and drug industry were solved when the progressives pushed the government to create a legislation that would see all products meant for human consumption being tested. This saw the enaction of the pure food and drug act and meat inspection act. Since then Americans have left the role of ensuring quality and safety of products, verifying labeling and marketing information to the government (Roark et al., 2000).

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Domestic policy objectives 

A number of progressives called for direct democracy where citizens would be equally involved in legislation. Three citizen measures the initiative, referendum and recall were called for. The ‘initiative’ makes it possible for citizens to enact law, ‘referendum’ enables citizens to block and reject laws passed by the legislature while ‘recall’ gives citizens mandate to remove from office an official. The achievement of this helped bring reforms and control in the government and encouraged full participation of citizens in the process (Roark et al., 2000).

Meanwhile, the regulation of railroads was achieved through the passing of Elkins Act and Hepburn Act by Congress. Roosevelt accused various trusts under the Sherman Anti-trust Act and signed the Newlands Act, and sold lands in the north to fund irrigation.

The Clayton Anti-Trust Act was passed by Wilson as a replacement of the frail Sherman Act of 1890. He signed many other progressive bills into law. This helped stop monopolization in business, including the monopolistic Northern Securities Company which had not been prosecuted under the Sherman Act, even after being declared an illegal due to its monopolistic nature (Roark et al., 2000).

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Domestic policy objectives 

In conclusion, the progressive movement left a legacy in the American history. They believed in the role of government insight in solving social and economic problems. Although they did not solve all the problems, they changed their situation back then and because of them, the government started to play an active role in America’s economy, even today.

Domestic policy objectives 

References

Roark, J. L., Johnson, M. P., Cohen, P.C., Stage, S. & Lawson, A. (2000). The American  Promise: A History of the United States. (3rd ed).Vol.2 From 1865. Boston: St. Martin’s Press.

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Worth of money Essay Paper

Worth of money
Worth of money

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Worth of money

Why is money worth more today than at a point in the future? If someone wants the use of your money, should you lend it or invest it in the company? What kinds of risk apply if you lend it? If you invest it? What moral issues are involved? 

Introduction 

In determining whether money is worth more today or in future the ‘time value of money’ concept must be considered which states  that money received today is worth a lot more that the same amount of money in the near future due to the ability of saving this amount and earning interest . Alignment of financial goals and the investment or lending policy is required in order to ensure the chosen option is beneficial in the long term (Advani, 2006). In determining whether to lend or invest money the risks and benefits of both options must be evaluated and the best option implemented.

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When lending money the lender expects to receive their principle amount and any interest that has arisen from the loan .The major risks possessed in lending may be a default of both the interest payments and refusal to pay even the principal amount .The terms of the lending arrangement ma not also be beneficial due to the interest charges agreed (Advani, 2006). 

Worth of money

Before making an investment it is important to evaluate the type of investment that best suits the funds available and the risks involved. The investment idea must match with the individual’s financial objectives. The risk associated with investing is a rapid drop in share prices if one has invested in the stock market a decrease in interest rates if one has invested in bonds and other forms of investment. 

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Conclusion 

Worth of money

Financial goals of the individual should be the key consideration before they decide whether to lend or invest .A risk analysis is also important as it helps in making a sensible decision on the option that is more suitable. The best option should help the individual increase their asset value.

Reference

 Advani, A. (2006). Investors in your backyard: how to raise business capital from people you know Business Loans from Family & Friends: How to Ask, Make It Legal & Make It Work. Nolo.Indiana 

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Comedy of Euros Article Essa

Comedy of Euros
Comedy of Euros

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Comedy of Euros

This article reflects the falling out of Britain with other members in the European Union. The depth of this crisis is explained. Various strategies of mending the solutions are proposed. Achievements of the Brussels summit are addressed and its failure to draw a plan for saving the Euro.

Why is this newsworthy?

Comedy of Euros

The European Union is a key economic pillar and represents the economy of many nations .A crisis in this union is bound to affect the people as the economy will suffer. For this reason this story has a huge impact on the financial backgrounds of citizens in the member nation’s .It is therefore important to follow the preceding of the story in order for the readers to make any preparation to protect their financial assets  

Current financial information is newsworthy as it impacts business and people’s daily way of life. It is therefore important to keep abreast with business information across the globe by reading this financial news. The information is provide in a summarized nature helping to inform readers who do not have a significant background in business related topics.

The European union have a major impact on the economy of the globe and any news that describes changes taking place in the business environment are beneficial to different stakeholders across the global .Through these news major decisions are made that impact the economy of different countries .The story contains a detailed analysis of new ranging from economic, financial, business news across the globe .These news analyze the market trends across the globe and the drivers of these trends (economist , pg1). 

A visual showing the Euro

Commodities Lose Allure; As demand from the Asian giant cools, investors should seek more exotic plays

This article discusses the various prices of commodities .Investor options are also evaluated in this article .A comparison  of prices of gold and rare earth metals is made. An interview with industry players is also contained in the article.  

How might readers use this information? Comedy of Euros

Business news contained in these financial magazines is vital as affects the decisions made by leaders from the various governments and businesses .Readers can therefore use the information acquired in various ways aimed at improving their economic status. The magazines contain news of models used by businessmen and governments across the globe in reduction of operation costs methods that the readers can use in their businesses (Wsj, pg1). 

Readers are able to acquire information about the pricing of different shares and other financial instruments across the globe .They can therefore use the information acquired in making business decisions on whether to invest or divest their funds .This is usually easy as the magazines include a detailed analysis with various share price options from which the readers can make their decisions.  

Readers can use the information acquired from these business magazines to make a decision on the performance of their leaders. The magazines contain various decisions that governments have implemented to growth their economies and the impact of these decisions. From this information the readers can judge on whether their leaders are implementing policies that have a positive effect on the economy and make decisions on whether to re elect them for office again (Wsj, pg1).  

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Readers can use this information in making decisions on whether it is viable to invest in other countries .The magazines provide information of different markets across the globe. Readers can therefore use this information to tap on cheap production costs and availability of natural resources in the different countries .The readers can therefore follow business happening across the globe waiting for positive changes that may affect their business and capitalize on them .

A visual comparison of rare-earth metal prices vs. gold  Comedy of Euros

A Rare Apple Compromise 

Apple has been faced by tough competition. The company is softening its advertising strategies due to the rising competition .The article describe the strategies put in place by management to survive. Conversation with employees is also included.

What management decisions are involved?

Due to challenges faced in advertising Apple Inc has been forced to make management decisions aimed at ensuring the company is able to compete effectively. The management introduced the selling of advertisements within mobile applications. This has been a major decision aimed at increasing its income through advertising .The strategy was developed to compete with Google’s Admob service .This has been however difficult due to the pricing of the products as apple has introduced the product at a very high prices as compared to its competitors (Wsj, pg 5). 

To counter changes in advertising the management has developed a strategy aimed at introducing flexibility in the prices of its products .This strategy will help increase Apple’s market share thereby driving its revenue upwards. The change in price represents the management bargain in compromising its business decisions by adjusting its prices to the match with the current market changes.

Management decisions have the effect of growing or destroying an organization. It is therefore important for managers to make decisions that are timely and accurate. These decisions can only be made where information is provided timely and is accurate.

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Management is involved in implementing key strategies as well developing concepts that will steer the company towards achievement of its goals and objectives.

A visual showing Apple’s positioning the market  Comedy of Euros

Best Buy’s Profit Tumbles 

Best buy is a leading electronics dealer .With immerses competition the company has been forced to make different strategies to survive. The article describes the strategies put in place and the financial results for the company .The impact of results may have different repercussions depending on their nature. 

How might this affect stock prices?

Any information that is made available to the public domain whether positive or negative has an effect on the share price of stocks of a company. Negative information like decline of its profits may result to shareholders going into a panic and selling their shares. Negative information is associated with a declining value thus when a company posts negative results the news are bound to cause fluctuations in the stock market.

Company results are announced in their annual general meting with a report from the management explaining the reasons behind a company’s performance .Readers of the magazine are going to be influenced in making decisions regarding the shares of the company. Some readers may be tempted to purchase shares for speculative purposes where the will be aiming to make a profit should the price of the shares increase in the future .

Current share holders may dispose of their shares after reading this article in an attempt to minimize  further loss in their investment in the stock market. The new may resulted to increase trading of the shares in the market as the demand from speculators is satisfied by suppliers who want to minimize their risks (Wsj, pg1). 

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It is therefore evident that news of a decline or rise of a company’s profits has an effect on its share prices .Readers should therefore seek regular accurate information on company’s that they have an interest or are interested in to ensure they take full benefit of any information regarding the company .

A visual showing changes in share prices 

Explaining high oil prices 

Oil is a key driver of the economy in the world. The rapid rises in prices of oil has had major impact on different industries .It is therefore important to analyze the reasons behind prices increases. This article helps in explaining the key factors that have resulted in high prices 

What are the risks and rewards involved? 

The oil is a very risky industry due to the commodity involved .An accident arising in the oil industry may have hazardous effects and therefore the industry players must put in place measures to ensure there is minimal expose to risks .This will be achieved by the method used in handling oil and its related products .The methods used must ensure easy reconciliation of inventory .Oil leakage equipment must be set up to ensure the staff involved as well as other equipment are not damaged(Wsj, pg1). 

High prices  in oil will result in an increase in prices of other commodities .This will strain economies of  countries across the globe as they depend on the oil industry to drive other industries .It is therefore important to make a detailed analysis on factors affecting the prices of oil. Political factors are the most causes of increase in the price of oil and their impact should be regulated to ensure they do not adversely affect economy of major countries across the globe. 

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The rewards associated wit monitoring the price of oil is an increase in the growth and development of economies across the globe .Fair oil prices result in countries being able to develop their economy through increased investment in various industries. 

A visual showing oil prices 

Capping microfinance interest rates will hurt the poor. There are better ways to regulate the industry 

This is a microfinance article on interest rates. Various ways of regulating the industry are explained .Microfinance in different areas is explained .The reasons behind the rapid development of the micro credit industry are explained 

How does a visual improve understanding of the content? 

The visual helps the reader to relate to the content of the article. The visual in this article showing currency notes .This will help identify the content of the article. The visual clearly depicts a financial content .Microfinance is mostly related to the poor communities and capping interest rates would affect their economic empowerment 

The bank notes help the reader in analyzing the content provided in the article. These visual involve a mixture of different colors helping the reader to distinguish the difference in different data that is contained in the article. This helps them in analyzing what each color has been used to depict in the visual (Wsj, pg2).

Visuals help give content to the article in the magazines by providing readers with an outlook of all the key data that has been included. These helps the readers in understanding the articles through the summary presented in the visuals and help them in making informed decisions derived from a thorough analysis of the visuals 

The visual must be placed in an appropriate area of the article where it stands out in making a detailed summary of every data that is in the article. It is therefore important for business related magazines to consider using a visual in their articles to help the readers in understanding the articles fully. The visual should therefore be as detailed as possible but should not include irrelevant information.

Visuals must be clear and price in order for it to achieve its intended objects .it must also be bold and colored so as to attract a reader’s attention. (Lam, pg5). Visual is important as it helps in summarizing the key data provided in the information .This visual is provided in form of tables and graphs and contains trends that the reader can easily relate to .The visuals are presented in a manner that helps attract the reader’s attention helping them to get the clear meaning of the articles. 

A visual on the article

References 

Lam, J .Enterprise Risk Management: From Incentives to Controls. Hoboken, New Jersey: Wiley. 2003, Pg 1-5

Online.wsj.com Where to Invest 2012 13.Dec 2011 <http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204630904577055673093626632.html?link=SM_inv_mr_res>

Online.wsj.com, Commodities Lose Allure 13.Dec 2011 <http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204630904577055673093626632.html?link=SM_inv_mr_res>

Online.wsj.com A Rare Apple Compromise 13.Dec 2011 <http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204336104577094872512502942.html?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection>

Online.wsj.com Best Buy’s Profit Tumbles 13.Dec 2011 <http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203518404577096160252527328.html?mod=WSJ_business_whatsNews>

Online.wsj.com .Explaining High Oil Prices 13.Dec 2011The U.S. economy is no longer what’s driving the market >http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203833104577072301052759854.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLE_Video_Top>

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