Neurophysiological and Evolutionary Theories of Learning Essay

In the study of learning, learning theories are categorized into paradigms or schools of thought based on viewpoints shared by scientists that provide a framework for research. Three of the major paradigms of learning theories include the cognitive paradigm, the neurophysiological paradigm and the evolutionary paradigm. The first paradigm is referred to as cognitive because theorists place their emphasis on the cognitive nature of learning. According to Hergenhahn and Olson (2005), the second paradigm is called neurophysiological because it attempts to isolate the mental and physiological correlates of things such as learning, perception, thinking and intelligence. The third paradigm is termed evolutionary because theorists attempt to explain learning processes based on an organism’s evolutionary history. DiscussionThere are several theorists whose ideas are predominately cognitive. Theses theorists include the Gestalt psychologists Kurt Lewin and Kurt Koffka, as well as Jean Piaget, Edward Chace Tolman, and Albert Bandura. Wertheimer, Kohler and Lewin were founders of the Gestalt movement. According to Hergenhahn and Olson (2005), Gestalt theorists believed that â€Å"we experience the world in meaningful wholes and do not see isolated stimuli but stimuli gathered together into meaningful configurations† (p. 264). Kurt Lewin proposed a field theory of human motivation. He believed that behavior and cognitive processes are determined by various psychological facts that a person is consciously experiencing. The psychological facts are interdependent and any change in one can affect all the others, therefore influencing our behavior. Kurt Koffka, another Gestaltist falling under the cognitive paradigm defined the law of Pragnanz in Gestalt Theory. The law of Pragnanz states that, â€Å"all mental events tend toward completeness, simplicity, and meaningfulness† (Hergenhahn and Olson, 2005, p. 473). Followers of Gestalt theory used this law as a guiding principle when studying learning. Another cognitive theorist was Jean Piaget. Jean Piaget contributed several theories including intelligence, schemata, assimilation and accommodation, and interiorization. According to his theory of intelligence, â€Å"intelligence  is any act that creates optimal conditions for the organism’s survival under the existing circumstances† (Hergenhahn and Olson, 2005 p. 295). Intelligence effects how one adapts to the ever-changing environment. In Piaget’s schemata theory a person’s schema is a cognitive structure that allows a person to act and respond to the environment. A schema can be either overt or covert behavior. The theory of assimilation explains how a person can respond to the environment using existing cognitive structures. The theory of accommodation explains how an organism adapts to the environment by modifying cognitive structures. Piaget’s concept of interiorization is described by Hergenhahn and Olson (2005) as â€Å"the gradual decreased dependence on the physical environment and the increased utilization of cognitive structures† (p. 299). Through this process, organisms can respond to more complex situations by thinking about them. Edward Chace Tolman’s ideas were also predominately cognitive. He believed that organisms develop a mental picture of the environment which he referred to as a cognitive map. The cognitive map develops when mental expectations are confirmed by experience. When an organism is faced with a problem, it utilizes the cognitive map and chooses the best solution requiring the least amount of work according to Tolman’s principle of least effort that will result in satisfaction. Albert Bandura, another cognitive theorist suggested that behavior is learned through observation. He theorized that learning is influenced by four processes. The first process, the attentional process, involves the observer attending to the model. The second process is called the retentional process. This process involves the observer retaining the information gained from the observation by storing it cognitively. The third process is the behavioral production process which requires the learner to have the physical capabilities or behavioral abilities to perform what is learned. The final process, the motivational process provides incentives that motivate the learner to actually perform what has been learned. Bandura also theorized that people’s behavior is also determined by reciprocal determinism. Hergenhahn and Olson (2005) summarize Bandura’s concept of reciprocal determinism by stating that, â€Å"behavior, the environment, and  people (and their beliefs) all interact† (p. 349). Falling under the neurophysiological paradigm is the theorist Donald Olding Hebb. Some of his theories included that of restricted environments, enriched environments, cell assemblies, phase sequences, and sensory deprivation. In Hebb’s theory of restricted environments, Hergenhahn and Olson (2005), explain that if an environment lacks stimulation or experience, it can have a negative impact on the growth and development of nervous system. A restrictive environment can disrupt normal intellectual and perceptual development. In contrast, an enriched environment full of stimulation and experience can enhance development. Hebb also believed that â€Å"each environmental object we experience stimulates a complex pattern of neurons called cell assemblies† (Hergenhahn and Olson, 2005, p. 379). The cell assemblies provide the basis of a thought. When cell assemblies become interconnected they form phase sequences. Phase sequences allow us to have streams of thoughts. According to Hergenhahn and Olson (2005), â€Å"Hebb concluded in his theories that â€Å"not only is sensory information necessary for proper neurophysiological development, but it is also necessary for the maintenance of normal functioning† (p. 384). When an organisms experience sensory deprivation, severe cognitive disorientation, stress and fear can occur. Hebb believed that the environment had a direct effect on mental and physiological processes which influenced behavior and learning. The final paradigm is the evolutionary paradigm. Attempting to explain the learning process using evolutionary principles was the theorist Robert C. Bolles. Hergenhahn and Olson (2005) state that Bolles believed that â€Å"learning involved the development of expectancies† (p. 425). Expectancies are when an organism learns that one event leads to another. Bolles believed that organisms had innate predispositions for behavior and that motivation restricts response flexibility. Hergenhahn and Olson (2005) explain that an organism’s natural reaction in a situation may make it difficult to learn a new response. Using the niche argument, â€Å"Bolles argued that an understanding of learning must be accompanied by an understanding of the evolutionary history of the organism† (Hergenhahn and Olson, (2005), p. 427). According this argument, organisms have to learn certain behaviors that they are  predispositioned for and not learn others depending on their niche and how they fit in the big picture. This can determine whether the organism is successful or not in adapting to its environment. Conclusion Although learning theorist in the various paradigms have attempted to explain learning and its processes, many questions are still unanswered. One of these questions is how does learning vary as a function of maturation? If learning occurs differently in different stages it would be beneficial to conduct research on how maturation affects the learning process. The information yielded from such research could be very beneficial in regards to education. Another unanswered question is how does learning vary as a function of species? If some organisms have the biological ability to learn certain behaviors and some do not, how can research involving different species be beneficial? If psychologists want to learn more about the learning process in humans, they should study humans rather than making generalizations across species. Other questions that remain unanswered involve learning and personality characteristics, learning as a function of the total environment, learning and associations, as well as learning and instinctive behavior. It is imperative that more research be conducted in an attempt to answer these questions about learning to give people a greater comprehension of learning. The more knowledge we have about the learning process and what affects it, the better we will be at making learning successful. References: Hergenhahn, B.R., & Olson, M. (2005). An Introduction to Theories of Learning. New Jersey: Pearson Education Inc.

Plant Layout Is Fundamental Health And Social Care Essay

Plant layout is cardinal and attending and consideration from the beginning are needed so as to forestall subsequent jobs. Although there could be different layout, the better 1 is still the one which is inexpensive and systematic. It includes scientific usage of work country, agreement of machines, easily screening out of stuffs or convenient conveyance system. Once the location is selected, the lone thing which can be adjusted is factory layout. Undoubtedly, layout is made for aims. For illustration, one aim is that the supervising of the work is easy and the stores remain clean and orderly. The merchandises with good quality should be produced at inexpensive cost and it should be easy to manage the stuffs which should be transported at a minimal cost in a minimal clip. Furthermore, maximal usage of the infinite country and better productiveness is besides the aims. Besides, congestion points and constrictions should be avoided and material waste should be minimized. All in all, it should be rushing of production and easy and simple care of works. As mentioned, works layout is critical portion of runing a cost effectual and efficient concern. Material storage installations, work country and production lines should be designed to execute to the highest rate and shortest rhythm clip as good. It is necessary to see all the maps within the concern when planing a works layout. The design should include the demands for the present concern degrees and commissariats for future enlargement. And avoiding frequent and dearly-won alterations to the design as demand additions should besides be considered. As a company proprietor, they should execute this survey prior to any works layout design. This will supply a clear apprehension of the present and future demands of the concern and the interaction of each section and will be used to plan the installation for the most efficient and productive work flow possible. As for Toyota illustration, we can non tie in the Toyota production system with the kanban system. Kanban system is one of the methods of control utilized within the Toyota production system. The Toyota production system is alone and alone. The thought behind it and the method of execution have been perfected after long old ages of test and mistake. It is a system of production, based on the doctrine of entire riddance of waste, which seeks the uttermost in reason in the manner we make things. We call this the Toyota system. Merely when the Toyota production system in its entirety is satisfactorily conducted, can at that place be an effectual use of the kanban system. Without altering the method of doing things, it is impossible to prosecute in the kanban system. Here is the chart about the panoramic position of the system. An~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~An ideal status for fabrication is where there is no waste in machines, equipment and forces, and where they can work together to raise the added value to bring forth net income. In order to near this ideal, we have devised a system in which the stuffs needed are obtained just-in-time which is precisely when needed and in the measure needed. On the other manus, for this ideal status to happen in the line operations, including machines and equipment, if there is abnormalcy, everything must be stopped instantly at the discretion of the worker or workers involved. The grounds for the happening of abnormalcy must be investigated from the land up. This is what we call mechanization with a human touch. We believe it is best to fabricate everything in a balanced mode. This load-smoothing production serves as the base for the two pillars of the Toyota-system, viz. the just-in-time and automa tion-with-a-human-touch attacks. In a normal workplace, the more the flow of things varies, the greater the incidence of making waste. The capacity of the workplace is frequently adjusted to the peak work demand and non to its mean value. At Toyota, there was a clip in which this was the normal happening. The industry has multiple types of parts in multiple Numberss. The procedure it must travel through is a really complex 1. The lone feasible solution for most auto industries has been to keep a certain sum of stock list on manus. They have planned in such a manner that every line will hold some work to make every twenty-four hours. However, this attack is a dearly-won one, because it requires keeping a parts stock list three to four times larger than that required when the assembly line has an equalising system of production. The waste created is tremendous. To hold a successful system of equalized production, Toyota must equalise non merely the measures but besides the types. Let ‘s take an illustration, Corona series. Toyota has a production agenda of 1000units a twenty-four hours. All unites are different in their engines, transmittals, external colourss and insides. Toyota scatters them all and does assembly work. They do n't bunch all ruddy Corona together and allow them flux in sequence because they want to equalise the types. If they allow autos with red-colored outsides to be placed on the assembly line to the exclusion of others, ruddy seats and interior parts will flux really to a great extent in the forenoon. In contrast, in the afternoon, there may non be adequate work left for those covering with the ruddy colour. As for the engine, they try to allow the 2000cc and 1800cc engines flow approximately in proportion to the figure used. As for the left guidance wheel autos for export and right maneuvering wheel autos for do mestic usage, the deciding factor in the assembly line is the gross revenues records of that peculiar clip. Or we may do every 3rd auto with a left guidance wheel. There must non be extremums and vales in Toyotas work, even in the minutest parts of the procedure. In so making, they can continue to the equalising system of production for their full procedure. This equalisation of the measures and the types is called burden smoothing under the Toyota system. The load-smoothing system of production is the major premiss for the riddance of waste. The kanban system can win in a topographic point where the concluding procedure is under the load-smoothing system of production. If there is no load-smoothing system of production, the kanban system will neglect. How to allow things flux? For illustration, we assume that five types Corona auto Angstrom to auto Tocopherols are all assembled by lines entirely devoted to each. Therefore as seen in the diagram below, at Line A, unites are moved at a two-minute interval, but at Line E, merely one unit is assembled every 16 proceedingss. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~P.54~~~~~~~~~~ When the separate sole lines are merged into one, the flow will take the signifier indicated at the underside of the figure. At Toyota ‘s assembly line, the autos may be the same Corona, but there are many different colourss, two-door and four-door theoretical accounts, left and right guidance wheels, all assorted together and interspersed while traveling through the assembly line. With this assembly line in operation, it becomes possible to hold burden smoothing non merely for the measures but besides for the types. The work done in this manner at the concluding assembly line warrants that equalisation can happen in all preceding procedures. These sole lines could merely every bit good be procedures devoted to parts. When all of these lines are equalized, so every line can hold equal work, and work can besides go equalized. When we engage in the load-smoothing system of production, we can set up standard operations throughout the full procedure, covering all procedures and lines. This is one of the chief ends of load-smoothing production. At Toyota, they manufacture through load-smoothing and figure out the rhythm clip and make standard operations. Then they can advance betterment activities. In a nutshell, the Toyota kanban system removes the signboards proportionate to the measure used, and goes to the predating procedure to retreat precisely the same measure. The predating procedure manufactures the exact measure merely withdrawn. The kanban system is a system that keeps on turning this rhythm. Assuming that the concluding procedure has non been converted to the load-smoothing system of production, but insists on utilizing the kanban to have parts, it is a bolt from the blue. The workplace can non utilize than kanban to order 50 boxes today, none tomorrow and 150 boxes the twenty-four hours after tomorrow. If the predating procedure or provider is treated in this mode, arrant confusion will ensue. Under the kanban system, the subsequent procedure withdraws parts and stuffs from the predating procedure every twenty- four hours, with consistence – in the same mode, at the same interval and in about the same sum. It is merely in this manner that the system can win. In Toyota system, they make the size of a batch in the workplace every bit little as possible. If the clip spent for interchanging dice ( one of the many thin production methods ) which provides a rapid and efficient manner of change overing a fabrication procedure from running the current merchandise to running the following merchandise is greater, the batch is likely to stay larger. When the batch is larger, it is frequently assumed that through it the calcium hydroxide lost though the exchange of dice can be recovered. But this can take to the waste originating from overrun. So, they make an beforehand readying of those casts, gigues and tools that can be assembled in front of clip, and to clean and put in their storage topographic points those casts, gigues and tools that are removed merely after the machine starts traveling once more. They keep seeking to better, those operations that can non be performed without halting the machine. So, the clip needed can be significantly redu ced. In interchanging dice for big equipment, Toyota retains the services of a particular unit organized by specializers in die exchange. Long times ago, it took at least 3 hours to interchange dice in an eight hundred-ton imperativeness. Today it takes merely three proceedingss. Assume that a mill is to treat parts A and B in sequence and they have four machines. They do non treat portion A at all four of these machines foremost, and so when this procedure is over, exchange all the dies in these four machines to get down treating portion B. if we did this, it would merely take excessively much clip. But Toyota chooses alternate method. Regardless of how many machines are connected to each other, a processed portion flows one by one with each rhythm clip. Therefore, they do non let anything to flux after the really last A. alternatively they let the air flow. While the air is fluxing into each of these machines consecutive, they engage in the exchange of dice. In other words, our set up alteration takes topographic point with one rhythm clip. At Toyota, they call this a one-shot exchange of dice. Since they use merely one rhythm clip for the exchange of dice, they merely encounter a loss of one portion piece. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ P.62~~~ In set uping a work combination, Toyota has some constructs in be aftering a layout. Alternatively of holding one conveyer line, Toyota prefers to hold multiple lines that are shorter. Toyota puts the entryway and issue together. When the entryway and issue to a procedure is made the same, one can prosecute in the pattern of â€Å" when one portion is withdrawn, another may come in. † In this manner, parts on manus in each procedure can stay changeless. More significantly, this layout can instill in the heads of workers the importance of the just-in-time construct. A 2nd benefit is that the work country becomes clearly defined. Just as with automatic machines, if a worker is stationed at the entryway and issue of goods, it is possible that no 1 else is needed. By seting the entryway and issue together, a worker ‘s work country becomes clearly defined. In this manner, his work becomes more efficient. Another benefit is that there is no otiose gesture. Where procedures are operated manually, the otiose gesture of traveling to some other topographic point and returning is eliminated. Finally, it becomes possible to hold fewer people consistent with the sum of work. To set the entryway and issue together means, in practical footings, to make a layout with a square bracket form, a U form or a circular form. In this manner, as discussed above, otiose gesture is eliminated and, depending on the sum of work required within these otherwise shaped layouts, workers can be added or reduced. Toyota besides uses a people-centered layout and dressed ores work countries. In Toyota, they do non allow one motor power multiple lines because a motor has extra capacity does non intend that it should be allowed to power both line A and B. Suppose A is burned ; so will B. Or when you want to run merely A, and B is non needed, line B still has to be moved. Under kanban system, the shop may keep many sorts of points, but the measure for each demand non be big. In rule, the shop ‘s layout should be one of wider frontage and narrower deepness. As for the stuff flowing, Toyota chooses to utilize smooth-flowing production system. To do the goods flow swimmingly, to raise productiveness and to allow the workers know that walking was besides portion of their work, around 1960 they began puting machines in a consecutive line, liberating workers from their machine enclosures. This new system had the advantage of allowing workers walk while working and manage a figure of machines. But jobs did originate. At first, we placed the machines in a consecutive line and made each group of these machines an independent production line. When we placed workers, based on the figure of autos to be produced, we frequently had a fraction of a whole individual assigned to each of these lines since we could non delegate a fraction of a individual, that figure was raised to one individual. No affair how of the group of line workers tried, each tended to overproduce because of the extra work force, even though it was little. Their solution was to u nite a figure of â€Å" independent † lines, and allow these lines absorb one full individual. They were able to do forces arrangement based on the alterations in the figure of autos to be produced. They still follow this work combination and now can bring forth merely what is needed. Hospital: Hospitals layout can be a really complex edifice types because infirmary includes a broad scope of functional units and services such as Hospitality maps, diagnostic and intervention maps, and the bed-related map or cardinal inmate attention. The specificity of codifications, ordinances or inadvertence which is regulating hospital operations and building can reflect this diverseness. Specific cognition and expertness are needed because of these wide-ranging and germinating maps of a infirmary but those functional units will vie for the precedences or demands. Ideally, the penchants must be balanced against existent functional demands, mandatary demands, and the fiscal position of the organisation. Apart from the broad scope of services which must be accommodated, infirmaries support and function different users. Ideally, the design procedure is integrated with direct input from cardinal hospital staff and from the proprietor in the procedure. The interior decorator has to be an advocator for the visitants, patients, support staff, providers, and voluntaries besides who do non hold direct input into the design by and large. All in all, a good hospital design combines functional demands and restraints with the human demands of its assorted users. Physical relationships between these maps decide the concept of the infirmary. These relationships between the assorted maps are needed which is shown as in the undermentioned flow figure. Flow diagram of general infirmary relationships. Inpatient gives and receives to/from outpatient, research & A ; instruction, diagnostic & A ; intervention, and disposal. Service gives to disposal, diagnostic & A ; intervention, and research & A ; instruction ; and receives from research & A ; learning. Administration gives and receives to/from inmate, diagnostic & A ; intervention and outpatient ; and receives from service. Diagnostic & A ; intervention spring and receives to/from disposal, outpatient, research & A ; instruction, and inmate ; and receives from service. Research & A ; learning spring and receives to/from diagnostic & A ; intervention, inmate, service ; and receives from outpatient. Outpatient spring and receives to/from inmate, research & A ; preparation, diagnostic & A ; intervention, and disposal. Flow diagram of major clinical relationships. Reception & A ; enrollment receive records and station infirmary attention patients and trade with entree. Admission receives from response & A ; enrollment and services inmate wards and outpatient wards. Records go to reception & A ; enrollment, outpatient, diagnostic & A ; intervention, and inpatient wards. Inpatient wards receive from records and entree and in turn lead to dispatch and pharmaceutics. Inpatient wards ‘ divisions ( medical, surgical, and psychiatric ) link to diagnostic & amp ; intervention ‘s divisions ( research labs, mortuary, surgery, x-ray section, P.M.E.R. ) . Dignostic & A ; intervention receive from records, and its divisions ( research labs, mortuary, surgery, x-ray section, P.M.E.R. ) nexus to inpatient wards ‘ divisions ( medical, surgical, and psychiatric ) and outpatient wards ‘ divisions. Outpatient receives from entree and records and in turn lead to dispatch and pharmaceutics. Outp atient ‘s divisions ( outpatient clinics and exigency ) nexus to diagnostic and intervention ‘s divisions ( research labs, mortuary, surgery, x-ray section, P.M.E.R. ) . Pharmacy receives from outpatient and inmate wards and gives to dispatch from both outpatient and inmate. Inpatient wards ‘ discharges receive from inmate wards and pharmaceutics and gives to post infirmary attention. Outpatient discharges receive from outpatient and pharmaceutics. Post infirmary attention leads back to response & A ; enrollment. These flow figures show the communicating and motion of stuffs, waste, and people. Therefore the transit and logistics systems and physical constellation of a infirmary are intertwined inextricably. The transit systems are affected by the edifice constellation, and this constellation depends on the transit systems to a great extent. The infirmary constellation is affected by site chances and restraints, environing installations, clime, available engineering and budget. Now, new engineering and medical demands generate new options. The one important illustration which must be mentioned is Emergency Department in United Hospital. The Emergency Department ( ED ) has become the ‘Front Door ‘ to the infirmary. But the flow to and through the Emergency Department is fraught with constrictions in many infirmaries, with conflicting and confusing messages environing ED. Hospitals with ill placed double or merely one entrywaies see the inefficient operation of those coming in exigency vehicles and self-arriving patients. Many EDs have hapless first brush systems. For illustration, ill designed intervention zones inhibit efficient operations. Furthermore, there are many layout illustrations which require inordinate walking to pull off the patient record, to acquire patients to an x-ray room, or to take supplies merely. These demands lead to increased length of stay within the section and holds in intervention, which besides lead to set much emphasis in staff likewise and patients. Inefficient patient throughp ut causes dearly-won and blemished patient dissatisfaction and operations. hypertext transfer protocol: //www.asianhhm.com/facilities_operations/emergency_department_streamlining.htmArrivalab initio, the layout of the ED begins to demo separate entrywaies for the two types of traffic and they were side-by-side today. However, if they are in close propinquity, it can still hold opportunity of uncertainness and confusion for the self-arrival patients as to which is the right zone. But now, apart from the ambulatory, the layout is to demo clear tracts for the ambulance. This separation begins at the reaching zone to the campus and continues to each entry. The ambulance entryway is spotted so as to non be in sight from those who come to the ambulatory entry. Direction to ED merely points to the Ambulatory Entrance. The demand for self-arriving patients to make up one's mind which entry would be right is eliminated by this agreement. The Ambulatory Entrance is unmistakably obvious and has a system to cover geting patients from the elements. A supply of wheelchairs should be accessible readily and doorway should hold hands-free operation. There should be staff from the infirmary at this point to help the patient to come in the infirmary which is frequently done by security forces.Electronic wellness recordsIn order to better and streamline patient flow, the use of the electronic wellness record is needed. The record of patient must stay closely to the unit clerk who manages the record, when a ‘paper ‘ chart is used. Because physicians, accessory care-givers and nurses must entree this unique and remarkable set of paperss, there are frequent uses but when the location of the chart is difficult to find, much clip is wasted by looking for it. The electronic record is allowed to take in anyplace within the infirmary, particularly at bedside of a patient. Coincident and multiple entree licenses retrieval an d faster entry of informations from the infirmary and from distant diagnostic services like he lab.NosologiesIf we can acquire diagnostic information in a timely mode, it would hold important impact upon patient flow through the ED. Sending the patient who requires X raies to the Radiology Department has becomes excessively troublous in footings of clip including waiting for a radiotherapist ‘s reading, line uping in the section or conveyance clip. This quest to heighten patient throughput causes puting medical imagination within the ED. A batch of patients seen in the section will find the figure of radiographic devices required, but multiple devices can be expected in ED. As for the instance of decentralised supplies, by agencies of decentalisation of diagnostic tools, the benefit of improved throughput can be generated, particularly if digital radiographic devices are used. Although digital medical imagination is filmless, multiple devices do non necessitate to be clustered for operational efficiency. And turnaround clip for image acquisition will be increased by puting a DR in propinquity to the ‘fast-track ‘ zone greatly. It can besides ensue in quicker diagnosings. A 2nd DR can so be placed to function more critical patients handily. Puting a CT scanner near to trauma bays can salvage clip in covering with dangerous situations.ADischarge procedureAfter medical clearance, the patient and his household are given discharge instructions and are released to go forth the infirmary or are admitted to the infirmary. Several stairss must be taken to topographic point patients in a bed if the patient is admitted. The motion of the patient out of the ED and into the bed will impact the overall patient flow greatly. The admitted patients become ‘boarders ‘ in the ED, if beds ca n't be found or location and assignment of beds is slowed. Then boarded patients will busy infinite that could be used to handle the following entrance patient a nd cut down the figure of beds which is available to make so. The handling of inpatient beds is a really complex issue, but it is cardinal that the infirmary be committed to a policy of timely bed handiness for those who need. Contemporary Emergency DepartmentFirst brush Upon reaching, the ambulatory patients must be recognized and given the clip to province his job. This is done by staff who conducts ‘quick enrollment ‘ which is a basic set of identifiers to register the patients into the infirmary ‘s record system but it takes a few proceedingss. The patient is placed rapidly there when beds are available and the enrollment procedure can be finished at the bedside. Supply System Configuration After the speedy enrollment, the patients are given a first appraisal by a clinician. This triage will judge the degree of the patient ‘s status and let the exigency forces to find the precedence to supply attention. The patient is shown to an ‘internal waiting country ‘ in the intervention zone. The patients can be reprioritized and observed, so it can acquire the right patients into a bed rapidly. In order to better patient flow, a policy for handling patients with lower hazard jobs such as lacerations should be developed. This impression of a ‘fast-track ‘ demands to be incorporated within the context of the entire intervention zone. And all beds should be capable of spliting any sharp-sightedness degrees. The fast path patients can be grouped in one country of the section but non isolated in a discreet unit. Based upon the fluctuation in volumes throughout the twenty-four hours, this will increase flexibleness in delegating patients to suites. However, ambulance patients have different paths into the ED. The status of these patients is communicated to the ED by and large by the ambulance forces who is an exigency medical specialty technician. Their reaching is anticipated and care protocol can be implemented quickly. However, there are state of affairss when multiple reachings occur at the same clip basically. A triage of these incoming patients will go necessary, when this happens. In high-volume ED, for illustration injury centres, be aftering for an ambulance triage station will afford sufficient infinite to work out with this job. At Toyota they assign Industrial Engineer to a steadfastly established direction function to heighten betterment in production activities. They start from the existent phenomenon, look into the cause and happen a solution. No affair how much information is provided through informations, it is hard to see the true image of the workplace through informations. When defects are produced, and they find out merely though informations, they miss the opportunity to take appropriate disciplinary action. Thus they may non be able to detect the true cause of the defects, ensuing in their inability to take effectual countermeasures against return. The topographic point where they can capture true province of the workplace is the workplace itself. They can catch defects on the topographic point in the workplace and happen the true cause. They can instantly take countermeasures. When a job occurs, if the mode of examining into the cause is deficient, steps taken can go blurry. At Toyota, they will foremost understand the cause and so seek to repair it. Although the end may be set high, its execution calls for patterned advance in phases. It moves from work betterment to equipment betterment. When good consequences can be obtained with work betterment, and when such work betterment has non been undertaken sufficiently, there is no justification for puting a immense amount in mechanization machines. The consequence of the debut of mechanization machines may approximately be that of a exhaustively conducted work betterment activity. In such a instance, the money spent for equipment investing is wasted. And Toyota will distinguish between man-hours and figure of workers, and between labour salvaging and people salvaging.

Assess factors influencing adoption and use of ICT in Kenyan University Libraries

Assess factors influencing adoption and use of ICT in Kenyan University Libraries Information Communication Technology (ICT) is the process of accessing or getting, storing, transferring, processing and transferring ideas and information through computers and other communication facilities (Fabunmi, 2012). Wikipedia defines ICT as the hardware and software of electronic devices such as computers, radio, television, digital camera, telephone, computers networks to improve communication. ICT has played a critical task in the development of any nation; it has been a tool for achieving social, economic, educational, scientific and technological development (Adedeji, 2010). The development of science and technology has made incredible improvement in the lifestyle of the society today. It has Influence almost all walks of life, especially, the magnetic words; Information Technology has been chanted in all corner of the world and has been incorporated in organization, managerial, development and marketing sectors. These are services offered with the aid of Information Communication Technology (ICT) which are faster and more effective. Libraries have not been exempted from the impact of the ICTs. The implementations of ICT in the library and Information Centers have made great improvement in the management of these centers. These have made libraries users friendly and have improved the efficiency of the library professionals (Kumar, 2011). According to Khan et al, (2012) Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have impacted greatly on many fields including teaching, learning, research, and school management in a many ways. In libraries ICT has made information faster from acquisition, organization, storage, retrieval. Also it has improved the service delivery of library and information services reducing time, distance and other barriers. However, it is extensively settled that ICT adoption in libraries is not a solution for all library problems as initially assumed. Regardless of their remarkable potential, ICTs have also brought different challenges that must be dealt with to boost the efficiency of libraries in unindustrialized countries. Avemari, (2011) describes library automation as computer use and general/ customized software designed for library and information services procedures that are used to perform specific information services deliver. Globally automation in libraries first began in the 1960s. According to Muhammad (2014) Libraries automation began in the 1970s, where libraries began adopting software applications and Machine Readable Cataloguing (MARC). In 1980s, network technologies, optical discs, CD-ROMs and communications technologies were introduced. The major goal of the early technology applications was used in automation circulation, acquisitions and the catalogue to make library operation and services efficient and effective. The 1990s witnessed radical changes in the application ICTs in libraries such as the Internet, World Wide Web protocols. The 2000s is an era of digital libraries, virtual collections, paperless environment and 24/7 instant remote access to unlimited resources. In Africa it began in 1950s, however, there were several challenges which were making it harder for academic libraries to adopt it, thus depriving them of the several touted benefits a library stands to gain from automating its services. In Kenya, most libraries, especially universities, schools, private organizations and little-funded institutions, were using Computerised Documentation System/Integrated Set of Information System (CDS/IS) library software. CDS/ISIS was used mainly for maintaining databases. For instance, the University of Nairobi maintains a list of research theses in Kenyan institutions of higher learning and a list of publications held in libraries in Kenya using Computerised Documentation System/Integrated Set of Information System(CDS/IS)(Mutula, 2012). Kamba (2011) also noted that Information Communication and Technologies are not well spread and utilized in African higher learning institutions, mainly due to poor communication network, inadequate ICT hardware and software and government s ineptitude to provide adequate funds to run the libraries. Inadequacy of skilled staff, lack of theoretical knowledge, lack of computer culture, lack of knowledge on the importance of ICT, lack of funds were among other factors have been cited by several authors. 1. 2 Statement of Problem ICTs have become an important subject for all information providers. This is because of its relevance and application to tasks in the library such as quick and easier access of information and performing of library tasks with greater efficiency. Despite these benefits of ICT use many libraries are still not automated. Most of the problems faced by these libraries include; lack of sufficient funds to support the purchase of the technology, lack of qualified library professionals, lack of motivation and poor remuneration need among librarians to adopt ICT in their daily operations, lack of awareness of ICT potential users and poor attitude of library staff on automation. Other problems such as government policies, maintenance and security issues also consist of challenges faced by the libraries in the adoption of and implementation of ICT. Libraries need adequate finances to obtain current ICT facilities such as scanners, photocopiers, computers, servers, software and paying of online and offline services such as e- journals and digital libraries which are very expensive to be purchased, and this has made many libraries lag behind because of insufficient funds. Lack of qualified professional has been a great hindrance to adoption since most of the staff do not have adequate skills to handle computers and other information technologies. Staff motivation, poor remuneration and attitude have also been considered as factors affecting adoption in libraries. This has contributed to migration of skilled labor in search of better job opportunities abroad thus affecting the adoption of ICTs. Staff attitude has also been considered as problem since most staff feel that automation of libraries will take away their jobs. Lack of sufficient information on the potential user has also been a problem that hinders adoption, since most users had bad perception on ICT. University libraries need to sensitize their students and library staff that ICTs are very important part of library and library systems. They make it possible for information to be easily accessible, available with minimal effort. Given that libraries are the physical foundation of knowledge. It is therefore critical that they are equipped and every opportunity to make them efficient explored. However various factors impede the progress for the adoption of ICTs in uni versities. Therefore the study will assess the factors that influence the adoption and use of ICT in the university libraries in Kenya. 1.3 General Objective of the Study This aim of the study is to assess the factors influencing adoption and use of Information Communication Technology in the Kenyan University Libraries. 1.3.1 Specific Objectives of the Study The objectives of the studies were: i. To determine whether students and staff perception and attitudes towards ICT has influence adoption and use of ICT in at the University of Eldoret library. ii. To analyze effects of perceived benefits of ICT in the adoption and use ICTs at University of Eldoret library. iii. To establish how the availability of ICT technologies has influenced the adoption and use of ICTs in University of Eldoret library. 1.4 Research Hypotheses i. Ho1: The students and staff perception and attitude towards ICT has no significant influence on the adoption and use of ICT at the University of Eldoret library. ii. Ho2: Perceived benefits of ICT have no significant effect on the adoption and use ICTs at the University of Eldoret library. iii. Ho3: The availability of ICT technologies has no significant influence on the adoption and use of ICT at the University of Eldoret library. 1.5 Assumption of the Study The study assumes the respondent selected to participate in the study were honest and truthful and they represent the population of the study. 1.5 Significance of the Study i. The study findings were beneficial to the library staff and users of the University of Eldoret to acknowledge the benefits of ICT usage in the library. ii. The study findings will be of useful to the entire university as it will provide sufficient information on ICT and it will make them have positive attitude towards ICT use in the library. 1.7 Scope of the Study The study was carried at the University of Eldoret Library. The research concentrated on factors influencing the adoption and use of ICT in the university library. 1.8 Limitation of the Study The limitations of the study were the area of study; the study was carried out at University of Eldoret Library. Secondly, the researcher had no control over the sincerity of the respondents in giving accurate and reliable responses. This also depended on individual capacity to read and understand the English language in a way that conveyed the same meaning to every respondent. 1.9 Conceptual Frame Work of the Study The conceptual framework is used to show the association linking the dependent and independent variables. CT adoption is the dependent variable in the study. The dependent variable provides the solution to the problem i.e. what contributes the University to adopt ICT in their Libraries? In this situation, the study has tested three independent variables i.e. perceived benefit of ICT, user and staff perception and attitude towards ICT, and availability of Technology. These factors are believed to have some influences towards the dependent variable (ICT adoption) either in positive or negative way. Figure 1 Conceptual Framework 1.9.1 Perceived benefits of ICT One of the factors that might affect ICT adoption in the firms is the benefits. Peyala (2011) asserts that computerization of acquisition unit enhances funds control, quick and easy checking of approved books, devoid of duplication is managed. There are several benefits that have been made accessible through ICT adoption and there are still several organizations that are not taking advantage of ICT. Therefore, perceived benefits are taken into consideration as one of the factors that affect ICT adoption in Libraries. 1.9.2 Students and staff perception and attitude on ICTs Attitudes of librarian are crucial in the adoption and use of ICTs in the libraries because they librarians affect the adoption if they are not checked properly. The acceptance of the ICTs by library professional is a crucial factor in the realization of the mission of the university library. For successful utilization of technologies in university libraries librarian should change their attitude toward these ICT tool. 1.9.3 Availability of ICT Technology The availability and utilization of ICT facilities is essentially to fast track the processes about and to ensure that information resources spend the least period of time in library. Use of ICT technologies in the libraries provides most effective and efficient retrieval option to the library clientele. In computer system and network, availability has been described as the amount of time facility is available in the wake of components over a specified period of time. 1.9.4 Management Support Management support refers to the degree to which an individual believes that management has committed to the successful implementation and use of a system. Duan (2012) Believes it ensures the limited resources and technological expertise are allocated for the embracing of new technology. Many university libraries are still lagging behind in terms of technology adoption due to lack of management commitment to support the technology both financially and formulating pertinent policies that provide the essential infrastructure for adoption of ICT. 1.10. Operational Definition of Terms Adoption: In the study adoption is used to show how libraries are changing functions of the library from manual paperwork to the use of machines. Attitude: in the study attitude has been used to show how user feels about ICT use in the libraries. Perceived benefits: In the study benefits has been used to show the how ICT has influenced the service delivery in the library easy. ICT: In the study ICT has been used as technologies used to generate process, store and disseminate information. ICT application: it has been used in the study to show ICT based serviced in the Library. Library Automation: In the study it has been used to define the application of ICT in the day to day operations of the library. Library Networking has been used in the study to show a group of Libraries and Information Centers that are interconnected for some common pattern or design for information exchange and communication with a view to improve efficiency. Library Management Library Management includes the following activities which are geared up by the use of these fast ICT based developments, Classification, Cataloging, Indexing, Database creation, Database Indexing. Digital library: has been used in the study to mean a library in with a significant proportion of the resources that is available in machine-readable and accessible by means of computers. E-reference services: has been used to show how electronic references services that has been enhanced with the use of ICTs. Online Searching: has been used to refer to searchable information o on line. Which includes electronic resources and databases can be searched using the Internet through search engines. Virtual library: has been used in the study to mean access points as well as the graphic records are in electronic/digital form when these electronic/digital libraries are connected via various networks, particularly the internet, this is called virtual library. CHAPTER TWO LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction This chapter presents a review of the related literature by various researchers, scholars, analysts and authors. The researcher has drawn materials from several sources based on the theme and the objectives of the study. 2.2 Overview of ICTs in Libraries ICT is often used as an extended synonym for Information Technology (IT), but is a more specific term that comprises of computers as well as necessary software, storage, and audio-visual systems, which have enabled users to access, store, transmit, and manipulate information. The term and Communications Technology entails the science and skills of computing, information storage, and communications. It is a new, rapidly emergent area that is drastically changing the world by making potential new methods of doing business, entertaining, and crafting art. ICT has plays a crucial role in hastening sustainable development as well as bridging the ever-growing gap in our present-day society. There is, yet, a vital need to channel the immense potentials of ICT in the correct direction for the improvement of the corporation and active human development (Adesoji, 2012). Currently Information Communication Technology has been the latest buzz word in the information and Technology arena. In fact the formal ways of communicating available information to end users from the various sources are among the major challenges nowadays. These days information can not only be stored, retrieved, disseminated in many forms bit also at higher speeds. Information Technology has open unprecedented opportunity in the form in which information is stored, retrieved, manipulated and exploited. There are three key components of the new technology .These are:  ¢ New ways of storing information cheaply.  ¢ New mechanism of manipulating, scanning and research such records  ¢ New facilitates for cheap and rapid transmission of information over long distances. With the hasty development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) the traditional concept of libraries has changed to modern academic libraries which has great potential, energetic and can reach their users without the limitations of geographical boundaries. In this era of internet libraries are fast changing to digital mode which can be accessed collectively. (Kamani, 2011). A study by Oyeyini, (2014) shows that ICT has brought tremendous changes in library and information science by changing the traditional concept of libraries from a store house of books to an intellectual information Centre. It is of no doubt, that it has open up a new stage in library communication and facilitated global access of information crossing the geographical limitations. Libraries now can use various types of technologies to perform some or all basic library procedural operations such as cataloguing, acquisitions, circulation, and on-line information access. Similarly ICTs has impacted in libraries by provide access to information resources and services leading to the disappearance of the notion of a library as have been known for years as a physical structure located in a particular geographical setting. It has changed the nature of library services over time as library â€Å"collections† comprise not only of physical information materials such as books, periodicals, films, videos, and others, stored in physical library structures, nowadays it include digital resources generated locally and those accessed through the Internet from laptops that are managed by other libraries.( Awour Kefah, 2013). 2.3 ICTs application in University Libraries Application of Information Communication Technology is very useful for libraries in creating databases of their own and making them available to users through networks. ICT has also enabled libraries to offer effective and efficient services to the end-users . Nearly all of the library operations like book acquisition, circulation, office management, the information services, are connected together, and are dependant and are mutually supportive for overall administration of library. Emerging of new technology has library revolutionize new ways of information storage and retrieval in university library field. In this technology era more and more libraries in the world make use of these new technologies for storage, retrieval and distribution of information in more effective way. Libraries have ability to store large amount of information using this new technologies and can transmit this information to anywhere anytime without any geographical barrier (Kamani, 2011) Now days there are numerous ICT technologies for various library functions, these includes; housekeeping, organization and managerial functions, which utilize different electronic and digital media equipment, networks and internet which has provide significant role in retrieving and dissemination of information thus playing a vital role by upgrading of libraries. According to Saleem (2013) some of these applications are: i. Library Automation is the concept of changing human involvement in all library services to enable any user to receive preferred information within his comfort and at the lowest cost. Main areas of the automation are classified into organization of all library database and housekeeping operations of library. ii. Library Networking this involves connecting of libraries and information centers to widespread pattern or design to enable information exchange and communication in the common view of improving efficiency. iii. Library Management involves the following activities which are certainly geared up by the use of fast Information Communication Technologies developments, library Classification, Cataloging, Indexing, Database creation, Database Indexing. iv. Digital Library refer to an assembling of digital computing, storage and communication of machinery together with the content and software needed to create, imitate and extend the services provided by conventional libraries v. E-reference services: These are digital reference which are available for the user. This includes Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI and Current Awareness Service (CAS) are enhanced with use of ICTs. vi. Online Searching: ICT has promoted on line searching, electronic resources and databases which can be searched using the Internet through search engines. This has provides a great resource for researchers and general information retrieval. Buarki (2011) in his study on Impact of ICT on library and Library Information System observed that modern library and information system can be grouped into four areas, as follows: a) Computer Technology. b) Communication Technology c) Reprographic Technology d) Printing Technology 2.3.1 Computer Technology Computers are now used extensively in the library operations and have great impact in the management of libraries and information centers. Computer technologies have been used in various fields of library activities. Some of these areas where computer application takes place are: Information Resource Building: This involves acquisition of books, monographs, audio-visual, electronic equipment such as CD-ROM, maps etc. Acquisition process involved the following functions:  ¢ Checking duplicates in book acquisition in library.  ¢ Books supplier selections.  ¢ Preparing and cancellation of orders  ¢ Checking orders which are long overdue.  ¢ Record of items on order of acquisition  ¢ Records of received and non-received items and receipt to the book supplier  ¢ Verification of items with order files and invoice number.  ¢ Inspection of items ordered by the concerned department.  ¢ Preparation of payment after accessioning.  ¢ Preparation budget and maintaining accounts statistics. Data Entry This requires database for each: Books, Clients/Members, Serials, Audio-visuals, CD-ROMS, Floppies, Gifted items, and Maps, Reports etc. Classification and Cataloguing are:  ¢ Catalogue card production.  ¢ On-line cataloguing  ¢ Duplicating and checking of catalogue cards.  ¢ Producing duplicate catalogue cards.  ¢ Preparing authority file subject.  ¢ Catalogue cards checking and filing.  ¢ Automatic generation of added entries  ¢ Generation of monthly accession list. Circulation Control:  ¢ Registration of membership.  ¢ An issue, returns, renews documents reservation and production of the slips for proof.  ¢ Recording charges for late, lost book, binding and production of penalty slip.  ¢ Maintaining of circulation statistics  ¢ Inter -library loan.  ¢ Statistics of circulation report Serial Control:  ¢ Input essential serials data.  ¢ Preparing of new list serials orders.  ¢ Preparing mode of payment,  ¢ Updating and receipting the records.  ¢ Receipting of Book seller or publishers.  ¢ Preparing the list of present holdings, missing, additions, cancellation of serials chronologically, subject-wise, etc.  ¢ Renewing and cancelling of present subscriptions.  ¢ Accessing register of bound serials.  ¢ Preparing budget sand maintaining accounts. Documentation and allied services:  ¢ Indexing and abstracting of micro and macro documents.  ¢ Catalogue compilation  ¢ Current Awareness Services.(CAS)  ¢ Searching of literature.  ¢ Selective Dissemination of Information.(SDI)  ¢ Clipping of newspaper. Information Retrieval:  ¢ Creation of database and maintenance, interactive searching, saving of in house.  ¢ Searching and print outs of queries against specified requirement  ¢ Information about the books (issued, reserved, lost, overdue, weed-out), member-ship, inter library loan, penalty charges, periodicals, etc.  ¢ Retrieval of information alphabetically, chronologically, per-subject members, reserved words with each particulars such as accession no-wise, title, author, call number, edition etc. 2.3.2 Communication Technology Communication is the process of transforming information from the source to the destination. Communication, the exchange of information and the transmission is very essence in a social system or in an organization. Dictionary meaning of communication is news or the act of making oneself understand the means of sending information between one place to another. In modern days, various means of communicating the information came into existence. There is a need to communicate information effectively, efficiently and timely by applying modern technologies such as communication technology. The main areas of communication technology are; Audio-visual technology, Fax, Telex, E-mail, Video text, Tele text, Online search, Tele conference, Voice Mail Box, Satellite Technology, Cellular telephones, Internet, Intranet, Extranet, CD-ROM, and DVD. 2.3.3 Reprographic Technology Reprography is also known as micrography is a reproduction process. It has made a great impact on document delivery system. Nowdays it is possible to record micro images in a range of microforms such as microfilm, microfiche, ultra fiche and COM (Computer Output Microform). Micro-graphics is a powerful micro-force for records management and information control. Reprographic technology covers: a) Photocopying b) Micro-copying c) Optical/Digital process 2.3.4 Printing Technology Printing or Printing Technology has great importance and playing important role in information and communication process. It has various evolutionary changes from making of paper and invention of printing to the modern printing technology of laser printers. Printing Technology covers: a) Technical Writing b) Editing c) Publishing 2.4 Adoption of ICTs in the University Library ICTs have significantly transformed the world, from the time it was discoverers few years ago. Librarians have adopted a range of technologies to provide different types of services. Mairajand El-Hadi (2012) in a study on ICTs in libraries find out those ICTs has not only changes library everyday operations and services, but have also impact librarians with new and active role in the library. It has also change the way in which information is being handled resulting to speedy and accuracy information access, retrieval, stored and manipulating hence disseminating users in different forms. Computer telecommunication and mass storage technologies are main areas of remarkable improvement that have shaped the manner in which librarians obtain, stored, processes, retrieved and disseminate information to their clienteles. (Ogbodo, 2014). Similarly ICTs has also played vital role by changing the conventional methods of library functions by giving new ways for teaching, learning and research in institution of higher education. Through the aid of ICTs tools, it has made it possible to store, retrieve, disseminate and arrange information by developing websites and databases. Information can now be published both by electronic means and by printing making it available to users needs. Oyeyini (2014) noted ICT has impacted on every area of library science especially in the form of library database, improvement of strategies, library structure and consortium. ICTs in libraries has offer access to information resources and services resulting in the fading of the concept of a library being known for decades † as physical building situated in a specific geographic location. ICT has changed the nature of library services over a time. Library collections consist not only of material information resources such as books; periodicals, videos, films, etc are mainly stored in physical library buildings. But now includes digital resources created locally and those accessed online and are managed by other libraries or information service providers (Awour Kefah, 2013). Oyeyini(2014) pointed out that for any library to reach maximum gain in the 21st century, globalization and implementation of information technology will be a great feature of the libraries. The size of libraries or their collections may not be to the standard but rather made it accessible to the major thrust of the library automation. Additionally, Quadri (2012) noted that nowadays libraries are changing their role from the custodian of traditional information resources to the provider of service oriented digital information resources. Extensive use of computers has increased reliance on computer networks, the quality and quantity of information has improved with the use of the internet , thus making university libraries to embrace modern technology for the storing, retrieving and disseminating information. With the inception of various Information and Communication Technologies trends , library operation have undergo restructuring, transformation .From the last many years, librarians have remained unchallenged as the sole custodian and gate keepers of information. But with the introduction of ICTs especially the Internet services, librarians has began to lose the impact of being the sole custodian of information. Krubu Osawaru (2011). Emojorho (2011) also noted that the accelerated adoption and use of information and communication technology (ICT) has resulted in the globalization of information and knowledge resource Islam (2007) .In a consortium, a group of member libraries are linked together via electronic information network and this has tremendously reduces the acquisition costs of information resources and allows users of individual library to have access to numerous information materials that ordinarily one library may not own. Library Automation is required mainly for the following reasons:  ¢ Obtain increased operational efficiencies;  ¢ Relieved professional staff from clerical responsibilities so that they concentrate on user oriented services;  ¢ Improve the services quality, speeds and effectiveness  ¢ Improved access to remote users and other stakeholders (e.g., the general public);  ¢ Improve access of resources on other networks and systems, including the Web;  ¢ Provide new services  ¢ Facilitate large access to information for their clients;  ¢ Facilitate distribution of information products and services;  ¢ Enable library participation in resource-sharing through networks.  ¢ Enable rapid communication with other libraries (including libraries) and professional peers. 2.5 Students and Staff perception and attitude towards ICTs Adekunle (2007) defines attitudes as inclinations and feelings, prejudices or bias, preconceived notions, ideas, fears and convictions about any specific topic .it is chiefly positive attitudes which are assumed to be fundamental in the acceptance, implementation and success of new technologies. Eguavoen, (2011) defined attitudes toward ICT usage as a person s general evaluation or feeling towards ICT, computer and internet service. An attitude has been used to represent perceptions of library staff on the value attached to Information Technology use in libraries-technical processing, collection, organization and user services. It also represents the value of these technologies in the library staff minds. Implementation of information communication technology (ICT) in the university libraries depends largely on the attitudes of librarians to its usage. The application of ICT in libraries has significantly changed libraries operations; which includes automated cataloguing, circulati on, information retrieval, electronic document delivery, and CD-ROM databases etc. Borrego (2010) in his study analyzed on Librarians perceptions on the use of electronic resources at Catalan academic libraries and found that perceptions of the usefulness of bibliographic software management have dramatically increased during the last few years, especially among PhD students. Furthermore he mentioned that librarians have stated that most of the complaints they receive from users were to do with systems breakdowns, inability to access resources off-campus, and discontinued resources. Sachin D. Sakarkar (2013) finds out that the librarians attitude on ICTs depends mainly on trainings which create an ideal atmosphere for ICT orientation of Librarians to change their attitudes favoring ICT amenities. This would certainly minimize the fear of digital divide amongst society and librarian. The ICT adoption and implementation is safe and progressive to the society under the guidance of a well-trained, qualified and positive librarian. Haneefa (2009) in a study of special libraries assesses in detail the application of ICTs in special libraries. The study provides a state of art application of ICT in automated special libraries of premier research institutions. The study identify the factors that promote or hinder application of ICT ,user s satisfaction ,ICT skills of library professionals and the facilities for training in ICT in special libraries. It also assesses the attitude of users and librarians towards the application of ICT. Survey results show that majority of the libraries have basic hardware and software facilities. Majority provide training for their library staff in ICT based services. The librarians and users have a highly positive attitude towards ICT application and the main barrier to ICT application is inadequately trained library professionals. Sagolsem, Purnima Devi Vikas (2009) report a survey conducted among the library professional staff working in public libraries and NGO libraries of Manipur. The main objectives of the study was to find the status of digital environment in Manipur public libraries, The study revealed that public university libraries lack of trained staff with required ICT knowledge. Though most of them had a favorable attitude towards IT application majority were not satisfied with their opportunities to enhance qualifications. The problems in IT application include lack of qualified professionals, high cost of IT infrastructure and insufficient computer facilities. Nair (2009) reports a study of the attitude of librarians in Kerala towards the use of information technology in library and information activities in his thesis. The main objective of the study was to find out the nature of attitude of librarians towards information technology (IT). The study was conducted on a representative sample of 284 professionally qualified librarians in different libraries of Kerala. The results of the study showed that majority of librarians showed favorable attitude towards information technology. They were prepared to accept modern technology in library activities. Librarians considered IT not as a means to reduce their workload but as a device to render effective information service to patrons. Librarians engaged in different professional work were similar in their attitude towards information technology. Kosoko (2014) observed that attitude consists of three main components, these are the affective, behavioral and cognitive, that show how persons feel about a particular issue, what they intend to do about it and what they believe about it. This shows that there is inter-relationship between knowing, feelings and doing. Considering these explanations, attitude can be deduced as a favor or disfavor towards a concept that is positive or negative. Positive attitudes are necessary for the success and significant achievements in an organizations, thus employees are expected to demonstrate positive In addition, a research done by Rajagopal Chinnasamy (2012) on users attitudes and approaches towards e-r-resources and services in academic libraries showed that there was an increasing interest in electronic information resources among the engineering users at associated colleges of Pondicherry University. Olatokunbo (2012) confirmed through his study on electronic information resources awareness, attitude, and use by academic staff members of University of Lagos, Nigeria that 55% of university staff members indicated that the level of awareness of the subscribed electronic information resources by the Library Management is rather low. 2.6 Perceived benefits of ICTs Adoption in the University Libraries In spite of the problems associated with automation, its benefits rather outweigh its disadvantages. It is a known as a fact that automation has enables easy access of library materials, and allows staff to serve users better and facilitate a multitude of tasks such as acquisitions, cataloging, circulation, and reference (Egunjobi Awoyemi, 2012). According to (Awuor kefah, 2013) ICTs has managed to changed several library operations and activities which can now be done better at the same times which were previously not easy to carry out are now possible. These days there are many opportunities ICTs has presented to libraries; most current information is recorded in electronic format. ICT has also contributed enormously on the performance of librarians who are discharging of their duties in the library such as in cataloguing, reference services, circulation management, serials control etc. Similarly Information and communication technologies (ICTs) have facilitated the flow and effective means of communication. It provides correct data collection as well as giving strategies for attaining objectives, which would otherwise be reserved for organizational structures. Okonand Iogbodo, (2014) asserts ICTs have become a way of life the world over even though libraries and librarians in Nigeria are still struggling with the traditi onal methods of information processing, storage and delivery. Saleem (2013) noted Computer has brought in a new impact to the library and information usage. ICTs have enabled library staff to provide quality and valuable information service by giving more remote access to the internationally available information resources. Recently highly sophisticated information technology has facilitated the storage of huge amounts of data or information in a very compact space. Jayaprakash Balasubramani, (2011) stated the University Libraries must increase the numbers of computer to enable the users to maximize the usage of ICT-based resources and services. Information and communications technologies are being used by libraries for book and serial acquisitions, classification and cataloguing, reference service, money transition, user orientation service, interlibrary loan, circulation service, electronic contents, document delivery service, e-mail and chat assistance, web 2.0 interactive sharing, photocopies services and bibliographic service. These oppor tunities not only allow libraries to deliver fast information to users but also promoting remote libraries. (Adeleke Olorunsola, 2010). A comprehensive study by (ibianye 2012), (Ghuloum Ahmed, 2011) shows the cost of maintenances costs of digital library is much lower than that of a traditional library especially with regards to space. Traditional libraries are expensive to maintain. Automated libraries on the other have minimum maintenance; the importance of ICTs is characterized by information services format change, contents and way of producing it, method of production and delivery of information products. The onset of internet has made changed on library profession role from intermediary to facilitator, modern tools for broadcasting information and change from physical to virtual services environment and disappearance of some conventional information services and emergence of modern and innovational web based. (Krubu Osawaru, 2011). A study by Okonand Iogbodo (2014) observed that ICTs had benefited university libraries in the following ways; i. Creation of OPAC: Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) which is the computerized form of the library catalogue .OPAC is easy to use, save space and can be used to access even catalogues of other libraries ii. Networking: this involves linking ICT enables libraries to network. Networking can either be local (LAN) or wide (WAN). This will enable libraries to access information from different types of on line databases, in various disciples, on-line magazine and newspapers, e-journals and e-books. iii. Resource Sharing: ICT has enhanced the creation of a central union catalogue which allows libraries to share their resources with other libraries. iv. Institutional Repositories: This involves compilation of publications which originate from scholars within an academic institution. These are academic theses, dissertations, conference and seminar papers, curriculum vitae, reports, inaugural lectures and any other publication emanating from individual scholars within academic institutions. ICT has enabled other libraries to access the information. v. Library Electronic Security system: ICT has enhanced library security through the use of Radio Frequency Identification Detector (RFID). RFID is the latest library technology used for theft detection. RFID combines radio frequency and microchip technology. vi. Creation of a virtual library: ICT has promoted the establishment of a virtual library. A virtual is a library that exists without any physical space or location. Parvez (2011) noted that owed to the automation, circulation is one of the most affected areas of library operations, it has help saved a lot of time for both users and library staff. Dzandu Boateng (2014) noted that with the inception of web OPAC, users can now search information from anywhere at any time; users can also easily do the reservation of library sources and this has helps to avoid or reduce the theft of library resources with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system. In the confirmation he pointed the respondents revealed that borrowing time was short and the OPAC has made library resources accessible from different angles. However, the study could not confirm if the Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has reduced theft in that it wasn t operational because the contractor did not finish installing and she abandoned the job. Additionally automation has enables easy access; that is users are able to search for materials within the library and from remote locations v ia search items as author, title, subject, call number and keyword and allows library staff to better serve users and facilitate large number of tasks. Awoyemi (2012) in his study revealed that, the filling of slips for borrowed books were things of the past; books are just scanned during borrowing. Osawaru Krubu (2011) opines that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought unprecedented changes and transformation to university library and information services, digital library information systems (LIS) such as OPAC, users services, reference services, bibliographic services, current awareness services, document delivery, interlibrary loan, audio visual services and customer relations can be provided more efficiently and effectively by using ICTs, as they offer convenient time, place, cost effective, quicker and most-up-to-date dissemination and end users involvement in the library and information services process. The impact of ICT on information characterized services by changes in format, contents and production method and delivery of information products. However with the emergence of internet information and knowledge has changed the role of library and information science professionals from intermediary to facilitator, by providing new tools for disseminati on of information and shift from physical to virtual services environment Mutula (2012) presented the experiences and the lessons learned from the University of Botswana (UB) library automation project. He found that the automation has impacted many project hence increasing access to diversity of electronic resources, improved image of librarians, invention of new services, freeing of library physical space, transformation of the library into a social learning environment, access to local content made possible through digitization, new skills acquisitions, remote access to library electronic resources from different sites.

SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (SPNP) Essay

SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM (SPNP) - Essay Example Moreover, for any candidate to qualify for the Express Entry pool, he/she must show proficiency in English or French (the official languages in Canada). The language ability of the candidates is determined by a standardized language test that may either be IELTS or CELPIP to test English proficiency or TEF to test French proficiency. This category also requires the candidates to have a minimum experience of one year in post-secondary education or training that has yielded to a Degree, Diploma or a Certificate. Certificates that are equivalent to trade certificates and comparable to the Canadian Education System are also acceptable; an Educational Credential Assessment is used to verify such certificates (Campbell, 2015). Nevertheless, the Saskatchewan Experience Category outlines more requirements within the Existing Work Permit subcategory than the ones provided on the post. It requires candidates to provide proof of legal status in the country and also proof to ascertain that they are not refugee claimants. The post also omits some requirements that should be met by candidates who have been approved under the Entrepreneur and Farm Category. The candidates should intend to; own at least one-third of the equity of a business in Saskatchewan if they have total investments worth less than $ 1 Million CAD and invest $ 300, 000 CAD in Regina and Saskatchewan, or a minimum of $200, 000 in all other communities in Saskatchewan. CIC News. (2015). Saskatchewan Launches Express Entry Category For Canadian Immigration. CIC News, 1-15. Retrieved from

The Differences and Similarities of the Different Asian American Research Paper

The Differences and Similarities of the Different Asian American Immigrant Experiences - Research Paper Example In chapter 3, we find that all servants who came into America still got discriminated against by the wealthy class of white people. During this time, Africans were being shipped as servants. Asian Americans have been here for over one hundred and fifty years, the Chinese arrived first but what happened to them influenced how the Japanese, Koreans, Filipinos, and Indians altogether were received. We observe that many of the immigrants received a hostile reception from the Native Americans and were treated as second rate citizens. 1882 saw the enacting of the Chinese Exclusion Act, which prohibited the entry of the newcomers on basis of their nationality. The Japanese likewise were not accepted in America. This they realized with a lot of pain when they were placed in internment camps during World War 11. Many of the Asian immigrants were received with some sort of discrimination in addition to laws and acts being enacted to prohibit certain countries immigrants from entering the USA w hich affected almost all the immigrant. There was competition between the white settlers and the Chinese which saw the enactment of Foreign Miner’s license Tax, where every foreigner not keen to become a citizen should pay three dollars on tax. Since Chinese could not become citizens, the enacting of the tax affected them entirely with act tax being followed by many others that were mainly intended to frustrate immigrants. Another similarity in experience is that at the beginning, Asia immigrants were welcomed because of the cheap labor they provided. For instance, the Chinese were welcomed in the building of the railroad. This clearly came to change later as their hardworking nature made them a threat. A worthy experience for all Asians was that of the Anti- Asian Laws which was mainly intended to frustrate the difference Asians immigrants. A notable difference is that of the Chinese and Japanese. Though the Japanese migrated in large numbers to Hawaii, their numbers in the mainland were insignificant as compared to Chinese, this thought changed as of 1902. Another difference in experience is actually the fact that the Japanese were able to economically empower themselves through agriculture something that the Chinese never had. Another difference is that with time the Japanese Exclusion Act was eliminated which was on the same line as that of the Chinese Exclusion Act. Another worthy difference to note is the fact that the Hawaii Japanese later were able to populate and stated their own family something the Chinese never did. The Indians too, though, they had lived for long in the United States, they too experienced hurdles from the United States government. They received harsh treatment coupled with the enactment of laws aimed at barring them from immigrating into the United States. They suffered from poverty realities too just like any other Natives Immigrant.  Ã‚  

Marketing strategy and marketing schedule for festival MOVES Assignment

Marketing strategy and marketing schedule for festival MOVES - Assignment Example Also, presence of aerospace, IT, media, financial services and tourism industry provides employment to local community. Arts, sports and architecture are some of other major characteristics of this city. This analysis of city and its characteristics illustrates how local residents pay greater attention to aesthetic attributes of their lifestyle. Current population is about 432, 500 with Bristol being the largest city in the South West (Bristol City Council, 2014). Most of the non-white population comprises of Black, Asian and other ethnic groups along with other recent incumbents from Slovakia, Czech, Poland and Hungary. There are many local celebrations along with Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Festival of Kites and Air Creations, Bristol Harbour Festival, St. Pauls Carnival and Bristol Festival of Ideas. Music, theatre, museums, art galleries and local graffiti also illustrates local population’s interest in arts and leisure. Due to presence of multiple cultures in this region, diversity and richness is visible in every aspect of life. According to overview provided by Bristol Local Authority, there is a considerable increase in population of children and young peopl e since 2002. The total population also includes about 35, 000 full time students living in Bristol during term time. Also, the individuals under the age of 16 to 64 years have increased by 36, 000 (Bristol City Council, 2014). There is also a considerable change in population due to immigration. Another major part of targeted audience is those living in countries in central Europe and also nearby areas of Bristol. Specific marketing strategies will be devised by analysing demographic characteristics of this segment of targeted audience. Some of the common competitors include government and private event organisers that have been conducting major city events like Balloon Fiesta and Harbour Festival. Since the MOVES

After WW2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

After WW2 - Essay Example l than other western powers and so it was but natural that a mixed economy should emerge from the process of rapid development that the Second World War had necessitated. Following the Second World War, nearly every country in the world realized the value of development and began engaging in measures to recover damages and accelerate growth. However, countries in regions like Africa, Latin America and Asia were severely crippled as the war had depleted many of their already limited resources, and the geo-political scenario in these countries was significantly volatile at the time. As a result, it took countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia far more time to get on their feet than it did for countries in developed regions. For Africa, the Second World War was a message that freedom was a reality that could be acquired and that colonial rule could indeed be abolished to make way for self-government. However, since multiple countries had dominance over different colonies in Africa, it took some time for Africa to acquire complete freedom. Colonists who wanted to sustain control over their Colonies in Africa sought to highlight the positive impact of their rule by establishing schools, hospitals and other public structures in the regions. In contrast, others who believed that it was time to allow Africa to spread its wings promoted the Westminster model. Countries in the Latin American region were in a very bad state after the Second World War came to an end. There was far too much political instability in countries like Argentina, Mexico, and Brazil to move forward. Shaking off the rubble from the Second World War would take a few decades. In fact, look at history shows that Latin American economies were not able to truly recover from the impact of the Second World War until the US began to take an active interest (and inject assistance) in the Latin American economy around, during and after the Cold War. Japans presence in the Asian region made it difficult

M &S annual report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

M &S annual report - Essay Example ng term sustainable business values, generate a continuous profit growth to the shareholders and make customers extremely satisfy their growing wants and thus to achieve long term goals of the company. The directors, according to Companies Act that came in to effect on October 2007, have the central duty to act in good faith and in such a way that it should promote the company in its success. Executive Chairman Lord Burns was influential in preparing rules and he has been considered to be independent under The Combined Code. Lord Burns had met an independence criterion that was set out in The Combined Code on his appointment on July 2006. â€Å"The Code states that ‘if exceptionally a Board decides that a Chief Executive should become Chairman, the Board should consult major shareholders in advance and should set out its reasons to shareholders at the time of the appointment and in the next annual report†(M&S, 2008). On April 2008, Lord Burns wrote a letter to the shareholders stating the reasons behind board’s decision to appoint new chairman. Men’s socks at stores are considered to be inventories and are valued at the lower of cost and net realizable value using the retail method. It is computed on the basis of selling price less the appropriate trading margin. Earning per share is calculated on the basis of earnings after tax and the weighted average number of ordinary shares. The adjusted earnings per share are calculated on the basis of earnings excluding the effects of property disposals and exceptional

Government 1 Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Government 1 - Dissertation Example It should be noted that Georgia and the Carolinas were two regions that supported slavery and their decision to stay out of the union would have been due to their refusal to abolish slavery at some point in the history of America. Thus, it would have been written in the history of America that Georgia and the Carolinas stayed out of the union as they refused to abolish slavery in their own territories. America would have tried to use force to bring these territories back to them and these would have also been written in the history of America. If Georgia and Carolina had stayed out of the union, it would have been that slavery was what divided America. Thus, slavery would have been the political divisive factor that made Georgia and the Carolinas to stay out of the union. The United States of America would not in any way have succeeded without a written constitution. If there is anything that is keeping the United States of America together, it is in the fact that they have a written constitution (Taylor, 2001). If there was no written constitution in the United States, there would not be law and order in the country. The fact that the leaders and other citizens of the country know that they must not do things that are not contrary to what was written in the constitution plays a great part in the survival of the country.

Ict Procurement Trends in the Uk Essay Example for Free

Ict Procurement Trends in the Uk Essay This report presents the findings from a survey of 136 UK enterprises regarding their approach to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) procurement. The survey investigates the way that UK enterprises like to purchase technology, as well as the major IT and business objectives influencing their IT investment strategies. Introduction and Landscape Why was the report written? To highlight the criteria on which UK enterprises select their IT providers as well as the roles which have influence while making IT purchasing decisions. What is the current market landscape and what is changing? UK enterprises are set to increase their IT spending in 2013. Kables survey shows that ICT spending in the UK is being driven by investments in core technology areas such as security, enterprise applications, IT systems management, and content management. What are the key drivers behind recent market changes? With enterprises being continuously exposed to malicious attacks on their business critical information, the demand for security solutions is growing. What makes this report unique and essential to read? Kable Global ICT Intelligence has invested significant resources in order to interview CIOs and IT managers about their IT Procurement. Very few IT analyst houses will have interviewed 130+ ICT decision makers in the UK market in H2 2012. Key Features and Benefits Provides insights into UK enterprises preferred buying approaches. Comprehend the business objectives that UK enterprises are looking to achieve through their IT investment strategy. Appreciate the IT objectives that UK enterprises are looking to achieve through their IT investment strategy. Understand the factors that are influencing UK enterprises decision to select an ICT provider. Understand which organisational roles influence IT purchasing decisions and signing off budgets. Key Market Issues Despite the uncertain economic conditions across Europe and the UK governments large scale austerity measures which have impacted public sector ICT spend, the vast majority of respondents from Kables survey indicate that their IT budgets will remain at the same level or will increase in 2013. With regards to the authority over signing off budgets, UK enterprises surprisingly give an equal rating to CEOs, CFOs, and CIOs. UK enterprises rate Improve supplier relationships with an average rating of X, indicating that enterprises focus is weighted more to their own operations, followed by their customers, amidst the difficult global economic outlook. Investments in cloud computing are expected to grow with the penetration of this technology increasing from the current level of X% to Y% in the next twenty-four months, driven by factors such as lowering cost and complexity, and ease of use. According to Kables survey, X% of enterprises have a somewhat complex ICT infrastructure with several hardware manufacturers, operating systems, databases, applications, and other elements. Key Highlights Although on-premise deployment is favoured, the demand for hosted applications is also gaining traction, as enterprises are continuously focused on reducing costs in the current economic climate. Raising efficiency is a primary business objective influencing IT investment strategy amongst UK enterprises with the highest rating of X on a scale of 1 to 4. The recent survey reveals X% of enterprises have rated the objective of meeting internal service level agreements as a highest priority. With an average rating of X on a scale of 1 to 4, UK enterprises consider Financial stability and Price to be the most important criteria in choosing an IT solutions provider. UK enterprises rate the CIO/IT department as the most influential authority when making IT purchasing decisions, with the highest average rating of X on a scale of 1 to 4.

Timber Products Corporation Case Study

Timber Products Corporation Case Study Lawler uses an effective strategy when entering the contracting process. He begins by setting a meeting with Richardson and Bowman for briefing on exact nature of services they require from him. He then analyzes the information given and gives his potential employers three different course of actions which they should take regarding a decision to hire him. He proposes recommending someone else, using his consultancy skills or receiving assistance from his students. Richardson and Bowman opt for the third alternative. Lawler also opts to develop an independent investigation of the plant in order to disclose the issues facing it as opposed to relying on the management to provide information on the same. He uses his students judgment skills together with his personal skills to analyze the perception of the problem from both the employees viewpoint and the consultants viewpoints. This information forms the basis of developing a report. This independent report forms gives recommendations which may solve issues facing the plant. Lawler is also careful to discuss the issues of payment with the management. He decides to charge them for three consultancy day every week in addition to expenses occurred in visits to the plant with his students. 3. Do you think Lawler faces any resistance in getting the manager and supervisor to support this effort? Why or why not? If yes, what can be done to reduce any resistance? (10 points) I think that Lawler faces challenges as far as the supervisor and manager are involved in supporting his efforts. This is due to the fact that he is an outsider to the company and these employees may be suspicious of his intentions. Employees are usually suspicious of intentions of third parties who they may view to be a threat to their careers. They are aware that there are certain weaknesses present in the plant and they may not cooperate fully for fear of being implicated in the shortcomings. In addition, recommendations are usually made at the end of the report by Lawler. The supervisor and manager are unsure of recommendations which may be made, which they may view to be a threat to their careers. Many employees also oppose organizational change due to uncertainty associated with it, which is another reason the supervisor and manager may not be cooperative for fear of change which will result as a basis of the report developed by Lawler. 4. List the problems that Richardson and Bowman see in the plant (do not include your own opinions). (5 points) There are various problems which are seen in the plant according to Bowmans and Richardsons views. One of the major problems regards safety. Employees are seen to be working in unsafe working environments where they are exposed to injury. A while back, one employee was fatally injured when working and this led to several employees quitting work in frustration. This is a problem which Bowman and Richardson aim at solving. Another problem involved employee motivation. Bowman was under the impression that employees had low morale and that they needed a motivation course to boost their motivation levels. Another problem involved the authoritative rule which was employed by one plant manager. Bowman needed advice regarding the issue of authoritative leadership by the plant manager. Richardson and Bowman hoped to use Lawlers expertise to solve these challenges facing the plant. 5. Using the open systems framework, discuss each of the following elements as related to the information in this case: (5 points for each, 35 points) A. Inputs Inputs in this case are organizational change, teamwork, motivation and human resource management. These inputs are likely to change the perception which employees have on their facility and increase their motivation levels. However, they should be involved in the process if they are to achieve the goals set. B. Outputs The output in this case is increased safety records, improvement in employee motivation and effective leadership by managers. The organizational changes effected will trigger change among organizational players and these outputs will be achieved. C. Each of the design components These will be classified into human process interventions, techno-structural interventions, human resource management interventions and strategic interventions. Human process interventions should involve team building. Techno-structural interventions should involve total quality management. Human resource management intervention should involve analyzing employee welfare, remuneration and their training. Finally, strategic intervention should involve culture change where change is effected in leadership, communication and teamwork. 6. Discuss how the elements of the system fit together or do not fit together. Use this analysis as the basis to identify problems you see in this facility. (20 points) In order to achieve higher employee motivation, employees should be effectively remunerated and trained. This forms the basis of the first problem since the system does not fit together. In the facility, employees are not effectively trained and they work for longer hours hence low morale. In order to achieve a clean safety record, employees should have safety clothing and equipment. These elements do not fit since in the plant, employees do not have access to these clothing and equipment and the ones present are of low quality. It is therefore difficult to achieve a good safety record hence the fatality in the plant. In order for an organization to enjoy effective leadership, the democratic leadership style should be employed. In the case study, the authoritative style is used and hence the system does not fit and forms the basis of the leadership problems facing the plant. The management should implement changes which will be discussed below in order to ensure that the system compo nents fit and organizational goals are met. Some of these changes include human process interventions, techno-structural interventions, human resource management interventions and strategic interventions. 7. Chapters 9 and 12 through 22 present OD interventions. Which interventions do you believe are applicable in this case? Explain. (15 points) There are several OD interventions which should be applied in order to solve the issues which arise in the case. These will be classified into human process interventions, techno-structural interventions, human resource management interventions and strategic interventions. Human process interventions should involve team building where employees should be taken to a serene environment where they can interact with each other and with their managers. This will improve their motivation and communication with top leadership. Techno-structural interventions should involve total quality management. This is the improvement of all processes in the fir to achieve goals of all stakeholders. When TQM is implemented, safety issues and leadership will improve since the goals of all stakeholders will be taken into account. Human resource management intervention should involve analyzing employee welfare, remuneration and their training. When employees are well trained, remunerated and their welfare improved, they will have high motivation levels thereby solving the problem of low morale. Finally, strategic intervention should involve culture change where change is effected in leadership, communication and teamwork. This will motivate employees and they are likely to give higher output. 8. Lawler has employed you as on OD practitioner to assist with this project: A. Who should be involved in the initial feedback meeting? (5 points) The initial feedback meeting should involve the two organizational leaders who hired Lawler to undertake investigations into the issues facing the plant. It should also involve Lawler and the OD practitioner. All other parties should be involved in later stages in order to safeguard the investigations and prevent sabotage or interference in the investigations by employees and manager who may oppose organizational change. B. How should Lawler describe the sources of the information? (hint: issues of confidentiality) (5 points) Lawler should not disclose the individual sources of information and should present them as employees and managers. This is due to the importance of confidentiality in such a process. Confidentiality is the major factor which enabled Lawler to gain trust from employees and receive feedback on various issues. If their identities are given away, they may not be cooperative in future. The management may also sabotage the process through intimidating employees who are perceived to have given adverse details or comments. C. Write an outline of the feedback session Dr. Lawler will use to make the presentation (15 points) a) The first stage involves conveying a meeting with Bowman and Richardson, the OD practitioner and I. This meeting should be convened at a time which is convenient to all parties involved and it should be held in a confidential location. b) The second stage is providing a summary of the report developed. This report should dwell on different issues facing the plant from the perspectives of both the employees and consultants. Individual names of employees and managers who provided the information will not be disclosed. c) The third stage is providing a diagnosis of the problems facing the plant. These problems which range from safety issues, poor leadership from the plant manager and low employee morale will be discussed in detail. Evidence in support of the same will also be provided. d) The fourth stage is providing recommendations on steps which the management should take to deal with the challenges experienced. These will range from increase in employee remuneration and decrease in working hours to increase motivation, improvement in safety equipment and clothing as well as applying other non-financial means of motivation. e) The fifth step is explaining the various stages of implementing these changes. There is also the need to involve employees and managers in this process in order to ensure effectiveness. Employees and managers who totally oppose the changes should be sacked since they will be barriers to achievement of these goals. f) Finally periodic evaluations should be done to ascertain the effectiveness of the changes. The management will be encouraged to user tools such as employee feedback to assess whether the changes have achieved goals intended including improvement of safety, leadership and increase in employee motivation. D. How do you think meeting participants will react to the information presented? Can anything be done to temper or diffuse these reactions? (5 points) Participants are likely to embrace the report developed since they hired Lawler to develop solutions to problems they experienced. The initial meeting with four members is likely to beg for time to discuss the report and is not likely to reject the findings. However, managers and employees may reject findings owing to the normal opposition to organizational change earlier discussed. The management should hold dialog with employees and managers to sensitize them on the benefits of the report in order for them to embrace it and participate in implementing the recommendations.