Thursday, April 2, 2020

Management Risks Identifying and Their Analysis

Introduction Risk Management involves a systematic way of context establishment, identification, analysis, monitoring as well as communication of any risks that could be associated with processes, functions or activities. It minimizes an organization’s losses while at the same time maximizing its opportunities. It helps in identifying opportunities and mitigating the losses. In event management, each part has its own potential risks.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Management: Risks Identifying and Their Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In order to manage any event effectively, risk management is necessary. There seems to be an increase in the number of events being carried out around the world and governments and other stakeholders are taking it upon themselves to adopt the appropriate risk management measures. Early preparations and putting the necessary risk management measures in advance seem s to be a signifier of competence and professionalism while inadequate preparation is a sign of incompetence (Aaker 1987, p. 44). With the increase in the size and number of events across the globe, risks have equally increased and they have even become more complex. Any shortfall at an event is usually captured immediately by the media and it could result to a negative public image Risks and Consequences Risks Identified and Their Analysis In the case study of the Battle of Trafalgar’s anniversary, there are several risks which the event was prone to. The anniversary was prone to administration risks given that there were various stakeholders involved in the preparation of the event. There were different contracts taken and various goods were supposed to be purchased for the anniversary and different services needed to be hired. All these implied that contracts were to be secured on time, goods, and other facilities bought at the right time and using the right procedures. Li censes and permits for instance had to be secured in time. They play a big role in accountability and transparency. The relevant authorities were supposed to be informed and permission for the event granted. They also help to minimize fraud and hence saving the management the losses that would occur. Service providers, the suppliers and other participants were supposed to carry out their activities in a particular way. Control measures were elaborate with the suppliers and other participants being required to go through all the required procedures. The other risks would come from the Public relation/marketing sector. It is common for the promoters of such an event to ignore the consequences of their promotional activities and just focus on optimism. This would be dangerous as they might not take the appropriate risk management measures and the effects might be catastrophic.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More There was therefore a need to control the marketing and promotional activities balance between the promotion and the potential risks associated with it. It might also occur that a lot of funds might me channeled towards promotional activities hence causing budget deficits. Over promotion and marketing of the event would most likely have resulted to excessive attendance as more people were likely to attend than actually budgeted for and the end result would be a strained budget hence leading to budget deficits. The event was supposed to be celebrated with a difference as other nations were involved as well. The implication for this was that the number of attendants was supposed to increase. This would mean that the budget for the event needed to be raised. The other risk that the event was prone to is that relating to the health and safety. This requires extra attention in the risk management process. The risk management strategy in this case involves plans to prevent loss and take the appropriate safety control measures. The hygiene of the venue for the anniversary was supposed to be improved given that the event was supposed to have so many participants. Health induction measures were supposed to be taught to the workers and suppliers who would otherwise run their own activities without any formal instructions from other practitioners (Barton 1988). The anniversary was meant to involve several events on land, sea and the air, by the military. The appropriate mechanisms were therefore supposed to be adapted to ensure the safety of those participating in these events as well as the spectators. The event was also involving vessels that were nuclear powered. Safety measures this would pose very serious health risk in the case of a leakage of nuclear emissions from such vessels or even in the event of an accidental explosion. This therefore meant that the appropriate safety measures were supposed to be adopted and the relevant prac titioners involved while dealing with such an emergency. The event was also prone to security risks. An effective risk management strategy was supposed to be employed so as to ensure that the place is secured. Among the invited were dignitaries from the close allies of the country with Queen Elizabeth II as the guest of honor. This meant that the security risks would be higher. Appropriate security measures were therefore supposed to be adopted. On-the-ground safety officers proved to be of a great importance in such a case. The ceremony was supposed to commemorate those who died in the battle with very symbolic representations. There was a likelihood of such an event being prone to confusion due to the multiple tasks and activities that were going to take place.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Management: Risks Identifying and Their Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This implied that the activities wer e supposed to be appropriately structured and ensure that there is order in every part of the ceremony with every activity allocated its own time (Abbey 1983). Given that the many people were expected to attend the ceremony with several dignitaries as well, the venue was supposed to be chosen carefully in order to carter for the many attendants. The standard of the venue was also not supposed to be compromised. The event was supposed to pose several logistical coupled with planning challenges. Controlling the large crowds was not going to be anything easy. Vessels were to be transported from various places to the venue of the event and anchored safely and securely at the same time. This would be an expensive endeavor. The weather would easily inconvenience such an event. Appropriate measures would therefore be needed so as to tackle any climatic challenges. In the event of rain for instance, provisional shelters would be needed. Provisional or extra toilets would also be required so as to carter for the multitude of attendants. Importance of the human side of risk management Risk management is very important due to various reasons. The planning and the hardworking that is channeled towards risk management are never in vain. The planning makes it possible for a variety of events to be carried out in a systematic manner and this leads to the satisfaction of the public as well as the guests as it was in the case of the battle anniversary. It also results in maximum attendance of those invited and other participants, given the fact that the event is marketed appropriately. Appropriate risk management also results in the strengthening of relationships and making of new ones. In the case study of the anniversary of the Trafalgar battle for instance, Britain invited representatives of its allies and other nations as well, some of which were its former foes like Spain and France. Human Side of Risk Management is also vital in boosting an organization’s, countri es or the event manager’s image due to the high media profile of that particular event. A successful event is usually perceived as a sign of professionalism. Different stakeholders are in a position to achieve their intended personal objectives and each stakeholder will tend to be satisfied with the outcomes as it was in the case of the anniversary (Carlson 1999, p. 55). In the case of a country, a success in an event may boost the country’s profile and this would result in increased tourism within that region and hence earning the country the much desired foreign exchange.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This kind of Risk management also minimizes incidences of risks accidents or injuries. The relevant medical practitioners are consulted and if possible invited so as to deal with any incidences of injuries or accidents during the event. First Aid equipment may also be availed so as to deal with injuries and accidents before the appropriate medical assistance is given to the victims. Risk management during the anniversary for instance helped in preventing major casualties. It reduces the strain that could be directed towards the health and emergency services within that area. The cost of the health and emergency services is usually included in the event’s budget hence no need to strain local facilities that may even not be in a position to carter for all the people in the event of an extensive disaster. This was the case during the preparation for the event. It ensures that safety is considered right before the event hence saving money, resources, time and it also saves people from grief as appropriate measures are taken in advance so as to deal with any potential issue that could emerge. Through risk management, the appropriate safety coordinator is appointed depending on the size of the event (Cataldo 2003, p. 43). He/she is the one that spearheads the safety agenda, the bigger the event, the greater the need to have more specialized personnel. Risk management helps in eliminating the stressful and expensive last minute rush by helping the people to plan ahead. This kind of Risk Management also helps in vetting the service providers and it helps in downsizing the workforce yet ensuring that the quality of the desired results is not compromised. In the case of the T200 anniversary for instance, the specialist’s activities had to be coordinated, various specialists were needed although their activities were supposed to be filtered and also coordinated. The contractors were vetted, their taskforce downsized and their activities closely monitored. T his help in the efficiency. The risk management helps in ensuring extensive consultation with the stake holders. The relevant civil authorities are consulted within time and hence help in the identification of shared objectives through effective communication. The process also helps in developing a robust command structure which enhances effective communication and hence the capability to link up with other sources of help from the outside. With a good command structure, the decision making process usually becomes simplified (Davila 2004, p. 200). It helps in ensuring that the relevant staff is involved at all levels hence ensuring effectiveness and efficiency (Nutt 1986). It helps to ensure that all the possible risks are put into consideration without concentrating on bigger ones and ignoring the smaller ones which are even more likely to happen than the bigger risks. Other Risks and Their Effect to the Safety The administrative, marketing and financial areas were also prone to ce rtain risks that could easily trickle into the safety of the event a good example being fraud. Given that the whole process involved various stakeholders, issues of fraud could be eminent in the whole process. Some of those put in leadership and supervisory positions may for instance involve themselves in fraud dealings like awarding tenders to unqualified suppliers so as to get some financial benefits from the same. This would compromise the safety of the event as some of the safety equipment bought may be of law standard hence putting the participants at a great risk. The event was also prone to misrepresentation by promoting or marketing it excessively. Over promoting the event could have resulted in the number of attendants exceeding that budgeted for hence causing a strain to the finances allocated for the event. The promotion also requires a lot of resource allocation for its activities. Excessive promotion of that event could have resulted to the attraction of many people wit h different motives some of which could be terrorist attacks or disruption hence jeopardizing the safety and security of the whole event. This would in the end result event’s objectives not being fulfilled. Through risk management, such problems were meant to be spotted and appropriate measures taken to avoid any inconveniences caused by such risks. The general excitement of the people coupled by the large number of attendants and equipment could as well have been causes of potential hazards and the appropriate measures were to taken to prevent such risks. The food and sanitation at the event was also very vital given that such an event with numerous people was prone to venders selling unhygienic foodstuffs. This might be a potential health hazard. There was therefore need to ensure that foodstuffs that are not hygienic are not allowed at the event (Davis 1949, p. 333). The toilets and latrines needed to be hygienic and able to accommodate the large number of attendants. The event was also likely to witness noise pollution due to the large number of attendants. Measures were therefore supposed to be taken so us to minimize the problem. The financial area was also likely to witness some irregularities particularly at several cash points which could be potential attractions for thieves, robbers or fraudsters who may want to benefit from the cash being collected. There was therefore a great need to beef up the security of such points, putting trustworthy and accountable people at the place. Table Top Excises and Scenarios in Risk Prevention Risk management is effective when it is accompanied by transparency and accountability so as to fulfill the desired objectives. In the current risk management process, all the activities and endeavors are made formal so as to enhance the transparency and accountability. The risk management process must be seen working throughout the process (Fennell 1984). In the case of the T200 anniversary risk management process for instance, the process was involved a lot of documentation and verification. Service providers were supposed to verify that they were in position to offer services of the required standard. Even contractors were vetted to ensure that they meet the set standards. Such transparency and formality helps in reducing cases of fraud and ensuring that only qualified personnel are selected for the appropriate tasks in the risk management process. The screening of contractors and other service providers help in ensuring provision of quality services and acquisition of quality equipment as well. There are several scenarios, which can be used in the prediction and avoidance of risks. Some risks usually context dependant and they are only unique to certain events. After such a risk has been well understood, the appropriate action is decided upon so as to mitigate it. Given that the occasion was supposed to involve people from different nationalities and in large numbers, there could be a potentia l terrorist attack. This is also owed to the fact that terrorist activities are usually eminent in populated areas and surprisingly most of them are usually aimed at western countries (Kelman 1989, p.100). The security was therefore supposed to be beefed up and using weapon detectors at the entrances to the venue of the event. In such an event with various parties from different countries, there could be conflicting interests, which if not well handled could lead to confusion and dispute. The end result could be disagreement and disruption of the flow of events during the occasion. The objectives of the event might then not be met given that most of the time would be used in unending arguments. There was a need therefore to employ a conflict resolution taskforce to be on the standby and come in when such a situation arises. The issue of the Master of ceremony (MC) is also crucial in such gatherings. A Master of Ceremony who might be inexperienced, impolite, illiterate, untidy, and e xcessively dominant could be a disaster in such a gathering (Ferlie 2005, p. 99). There have been some cases where the Master of Ceremony fails to turn up hence leading to confusion in the event. In such a case, the appropriate persons should be consulted on time and screened to ensure that they can perform. There needs to be several qualified M.C.s so that in the event that one fails to turn up or fails to meet the expectations then, the other one should be able to take over. Such an event is also prone to problems of fund collection. The fund collection activity is likely to be prone to fraud and cases of theft. There is therefore a great need to put an effective fund collection procedure which can be effectively accounted for. Only trustworthy staff members should be put in charge of the whole activity. The collection point should also be staffed with the relevant security personnel so as to tackle the cases of burglary. Given that such an event involves very many attendants, it might not be easy to approximate the number of attendants. It is possible for the number of attendants to supersede the approximated number hence causing a strain to the budget. A deficit in the budget may be a hindrance to some of the events activities being carried out. Prevention and Contingency Plan A Possible major risk in this event would be that of a fatal accident. A plan that is detailed and contingent needed to be developed so as to deal with the same.Using the SWOT analysis, the risk of a fatal accident could be curtailed using the appropriate measures. The SWOT Analysis The SWOT analysis could be very relevant in dealing with the possibility of a fatal accident. In this kind of analysis, several aspects are analyzed in relation to the possibility a fatal accident occurring. The strategy aims at looking at the Strengths, the Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats that could emerge in the process while trying to mitigate the possible risks of the event. Strengths The some o f the strengths would include the availability of the right personnel to deal with the possibility of a fatal accident, availability of high quality equipment that would be of great help in dealing with the possibility of such an accident and the following of the right procedures in mitigating the problem. The venue was also strategically placed for ease in mitigation. Weaknesses Some of the possible weaknesses would be the negative publicity of the event by the media, particularly those of the countries that are Britain’s adversaries hence increasing the possibility of a terror attack. The event is other weakness would be fraud particularly in the acquisition of the required equipment and tendering which would lead to poor quality services and equipment. The excessive promotion of the event could be another weakness with its own disadvantages. Opportunity Some of the opportunities available include advancement in technological innovations and their inclusion in making the ev ent a success. The other opportunity includes the possibility of increasing the number of the countries allies hence making the event more successful especially in the provision of first aid services and equipment as well as services. Threats Some of the possible threats for the event would include the possibility of terror attacks. Given that the event was over marketed, the event was likely to witness an excess in the number of attendants and in the event of a fatal accident, the number of casualties would be more than that planned for hence causing a strain on the budget as well as the medical facilities and services available. The table below gives a SWOT analysis for the event Identified risk likelihood Consequences Level of risk Prevention By whom Contingency Administrative Moderate Moderate considerable Involving relevant authorities Administrative personnel Training of staff Public relations and marketing potential catastrophic considerable Controlled marketing Promo ters and marketers Increased budgetary allocation Health and security Most likely catastrophic High Employing on the ground officers Security personnel Train security and health personnel Logistical Mist likely catastrophic High Not compromising g o standards Logistical personnel Choosing the venue carefully There needed to be a comprehensive plan or workable alternatives to be integrated in prevention or minimization of the possible risks that would occur. This comes after risk analysis. The appropriate contingency plan containing the appropriate response to the risk’s impact would involve procedures of decision making, an effective chain of command as well as coupled with appropriate cause of action. There was supposed to be effectiveness in the decision making and organization of the event. Control needed to be exercised on the people, the transport system both for the public and air space. The service providers needed to be qualified and the services and other supp liers were supposed to meet the set standards. Tendering and contracting processes demanded that the contactors produce not only the health but also the safety plan. These issues were dealt with in advance. The tasks to be handled were enormous and complex. The safety personnel on the ground were supposed to ensure the safety of the participants, guests and spectators and their coordination was very vital. Cooperation between the local authorities and the relevant international practitioners was very vital in ensuring the safety and success of the whole event. The planning was carried out at all levels and the relevant staff and contractors were involved at these levels. Potential risks like typhoons, and terror attacks were planned for in advance (Baum 2001:88). A safety-working group was supposed to be established so as to coordinate the health and safety issues. Specialists from particular subject areas were involved in the task and they were from various disciplines. This enhanc ed the division of labor as every group concentrated on its own activities. The safety working group enhanced the coordination of the planning group as they enabled the exchange of ideas to be easy. The group enhanced a relaxed working environment. They briefed the major staff members on various aspects of their duties and did the analysis evaluation of the respective groups. Recommendations Such an event poses a big threat not only to the participants and attendants but also to the entire nation. As such, several recommendations should be considered for future events. Planning for such kind of an event should involve top security personnel both at the local and international level. Thus will help detect and counter potential threats. A rehearsal should be done well in time to allow the planners enough time to incorporate necessary changes. Planning for the even should star well in advance and should incorporate a thorough training of all personnel involved in the execution process. Training should also involve training the planers themselves. Recruitment of personnel is a crucial matter. For such a magnanimous event, the planners should consider recruiting people who have been involved in planning and execution of big pubic events. Marketing should be controlled in such a way that it would be possible to arrive at a rough estimate on the number of people that might attend and thus avoid budget constrains in the event of an over attendance. Reference List Aaker, D. A., Jacobson, R., 1987.  The role of risk in explaining differences in profitability. The Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 30, No. 2, pp. 277-296. Abbey, A., Dickson, J. W., 1983.  RD work climate and innovation in semiconductors. The Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 26, No. 2, pp. 362-368. Barton, S. L., 1988.  Diversification strategy and systematic risk: Another look. The  Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 31, No. 1, pp. 166-175. Baum, J. R., Locke, E. A., Smith, K. G., 2001.   A multidimensional model of venture growth. The Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 44, No. 2, pp. 292-303. Carlson, N. F., 1999. Global risk management. Strategic Finance (August): 34-37. Cataldo, A. J., Killough, L. N., 2003. Is your firm safe from cybersmear?  Strategic Finance, pp. 34-38. Davila, T., Epstein, M. J., Matusik, S. F., 2004. Innovation strategy and the use of performance measures. Advances in Management Accounting, Vol. 13, pp.   27-58. Davis, J. L.,1949. Cost index method for determining insurable values. N.A.C.A.  Bulletin (December): 470. Fennell, M. L., 1984. Synergy, influence, and information in the adoption of administrative innovations. The Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 27, No. 1, pp. 113- 129. Ferlie, E., Fitzgerald, L., Wood, M., Hawkins, C., 2005. The nonspread of innovations: The mediating role of professionals. The Academy of  Management Journal Vol. 48, No. 1, pp. 117-134. Guay, W. R., 1999. The impact of derivatives on firm risk: A n empirical examination of new derivative users. Journal of Accounting and Economics  pp. 319-351. Kelman, H. C., 1989, Crimes of Obedience: Toward a Social Psychology of  Authority and Responsibility. New Haven: Yale University Press. Nutt, P. C., 1986.  Tactics of implementation. The Academy of Management Journal  Vol. 29, No. 2, pp. 230-261. This report on Management: Risks Identifying and Their Analysis was written and submitted by user Caitlyn N. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Problem With Underage Drinking essays

Problem With Underage Drinking essays Underage Drinking in the United States The problem with underage drinking is that underage drinking occurs everywhere in the United States on a daily basis. Whether binge drinking takes place in a college town, by students who have not reached the magical age of twenty-one, or by high school students who are drinking and driving just to seek a thrill, everyone knows that underage drinking is an enormous problem in the United States. Despite all of the immense accomplishments achieved by the United States, statistics show that every twenty-two minutes a person is killed due to an alcohol related incident (Jones 112-115). Doctors say, Almost half of all unnatural deaths are related to alcohol. Research that was carried out by doctors suggesting that forty-four percent of deaths from causes such as suicides, falls, traffic injuries, and murder are all linked to alcohol (Jones 112-115). A human beings life is ethereal. Once a drunk driver has taken another persons life, there is no way to give it back. Whether it is a fatal accident or an incident of fatal alcohol poisoning due to a human beings carelessness, alcohol must be seen by everyone as what it is, a fatal weapon. Alcohol, consumed in large enough doses is very lethal and peoples carelessness can easily take their own lives, as well as others. To put it into perspective, research has shown that European countries, who have lowered drinking ages under twenty-one, have rates of alcohol related diseases, such as cirrhosis of the liver, similar to or higher than the citizens of the United States population. However, drinking and driving amon g youths and underage drinkers in Europe is not nearly as huge of a problem as in the United States by underage drinkers (Wagenaar 175-200). According to a study done by the Century Council, In 1996, twenty-one percent of fifteen to twenty year old drivers involved in fatal crashes had b...

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Incremental analysis + decision making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Incremental analysis + decision making - Essay Example According to the article, the company has decided to focus on the key geographical areas such as Canada where it has brand recognition. This is a desperate move for the company to help get customers to jump-start its handset business (Rao et al 2008). The report aims at establishing key internal factors as well as external factors that are likely to pose the strongest impact on the course of actions of Blackberry Ltd. It then provides a recommendation based on the SWOT and PESTEL analyses and central issues in the article. The company is likely to succeed in the Canadian market because it has positioned itself well. It has targeted a market for which it still strong brand recognition (Ligaya, 2014). The relatively friendly political climate in Canada and other surrounding North American countries have helped the Smartphone industry to flourish (Rao et al 2008). The Smartphone users have been on the increased, and it is believed that they are soon going to overtake feature phone user. Such a situation is likely to contribute to the success of the new product launch. The company is likely to face a difficulty in adhering to strict regulations regarding hygiene and safety standards in the country. It will have to spend a substantial amount of money to ensure that they limit the usage of toxic contents, recycling and energy usage. In addition, the country has high tax rate levels which are likely to reduce the profits of the company (Ligaya, 2014). The strategies adopted by BlackBerry Ltd. in the launch of its Passport Smartphone in Toronto have positioned it well to tackle both the internal and external factors on the horizon. First, the company has a target a geographical location where it has strong brand recognition. This is likely to help it attract more customers considering that it is moving out of restructuring phase. Secondly, the company is also planning to introduce Classic so as to be able to appeal to masses in order

Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Magic of Language in the Starbucks Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Magic of Language in the Starbucks - Essay Example The iconic cultural status quo of the Starbucks manifests through its modern dà ©cor, expressive and bold latte lingo and its corporate ambiance. Global structures of the mutual divergence organize and uphold cultural diversity along particular scopes. Such diversity that Starbucks emanates corresponds to the prototypical qualities of middle-level outlets. Such middle-level outlets such as the taverns, coffee shops, and pubs exist in the middle of two spheres. These spheres include the work scenario mainly characterized by seriousness and formality and the domestic sphere that tends to elicit intimacy and privacy. These outlets tend to be best suitable for casual and informal conversations between friends and other association within the society. However, Starbucks provides the entire middle-level ambiance with a touch of the global aspect. Starbucks offers hundreds of conceivable drink blends. One can get any drink from a plain black coffee to more specialized and custom-made bever ages, for instance, a hot grande decaf mocha latte with foam to go. Starbucks believes that its consumers need. Despite being a global brand, the formal language in all the Starbucks outlets is English. Above the sugars, cinnamon shakers and milk, brochures written in English elaborate on social responsibilities done. A drink at the Starbucks sends various notions to the consumers and the community at large. Owing to the prices of beverages provide, more individuals tend to believe that consumption supersedes the necessity of making savings.

Monday, January 27, 2020

Critical Appraisal Of A Research Paper Nursing Essay

Critical Appraisal Of A Research Paper Nursing Essay Research is the key contributor of professional development in many professions, particularly healthcare. It allows practitioners to inform, adjust and monitor particular ways of practice or issues. The ability to evaluate research evidence appropriately is essential to avoid the assumption that all published research is of equal merit and validity. In order to critically appraise the article, Clinical handover in the trauma setting: a qualitative study of paramedics and trauma team members (Evans, Murray, Patrick, Fitzgerald, Smith Cameron, 2010), the ten point CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme, 2006) framework is used. Current literature will be utilised to guide the discussion and reflection in order to conclude the overall strength of this article. The studys aims are concisely stated and numbered clearly. This is of importance in research keeping the main focus well established and succinct, allowing readers to easily understand the objectives (Collins, 2010; Gerrish Lacey, 2010; Stommel Wills, 2004). and reduce the chance of inter-researcher confusion. The authors discussed their reasons for focussing on clinical handovers, highlighting that communication difficulties can lead to serious, even fatal mistakes. A previous study is used to confirm the severity of this problem. Khan (2008) illustrates the benefits of using previous studies in ones background enforce the discussion of why the research is relevant. The researchers discuss the MIST (Mechanism-Injuries-Signs-Treatment) template used in the military, pointing out that little is known about its effectiveness in more general settings. Other ways of improving communication are discussed, such as radio pre-alerts and the use of electronic tablets, noting that as yet eff ectiveness is unproven, supporting the value of this new research. The researchers have not disclosed reasons for choosing qualitative methodology; however, it is appropriate to their aims. They intended to obtain and illuminate personal views and subjective experiences of using the MIST template during handover, in turn modifying the template in response to recurring findings. The stated aim of understanding issues affecting handover efficiency can be best researched via the qualitative method in order to gain participants interpretations of the other professionals involved and to enlighten the interactions between these groups (Block, 2006). The gathering of opinions on data transmission methods and data display within the emergency department (ED) provides a more in-depth understanding of how errors occur and furthermore, how this problem could be improved (Bowling Ebrahim, 2005). The research design used in this study is grounded theory. This specifically enables a new theory to arise from data in order to explain social phenomenon and human behaviour (Chears, 2009; Williams, 2012). It could be argued that the researchers are not developing a new theory in relation to the improvement of the minimum dataset as they merely adapt the MIST template (an already established theory), whereas typically, grounded theory forms a theory from original data collected during a study, not by testing a theory from previous literature in the field (Giles, 2002). In contrast, Henandez (2011) recommends using datasets from previous research in order to collate secondary and primary research, allowing the combination of ideas to form a theory. Furthermore, the findings seem to show that grounded theory has been used within attributes of an affective and ineffective handover: A set of ideas designed to explain what constitutes handover quality has been developed. An example: 11 o ut of the 17 participants expressed that a poor handover includes extraneous information and interruptions. The researchers developed this as a theory to explain why poor handovers may occur. They have described their use of grounded theory but not clarified why they have used this method or with what aims they wished to develop new theories. In relation to the recruitment strategy, Daymon Holloway (2011) illuminate the importance of disclosing the setting, timeframe and people involved in research in order to clarify the boundaries of the study. Here, details of inclusion of participants are thorough and well recorded, including geographical locations, timeframes and demographics. Table 1 shows all participants had a mean of 5 years post-graduate experience, indicating that those with considerable experience were selected. The researchers used purposive sampling method to find a representative group (participants with experience of transporting trauma patients to a trauma service) and used convenience sampling within this representative group to ensure all participants could contribute to the data (Monsen Horn, 2008). Purposive sampling is highly targeted and forms a specific group, resulting in this method being subject to bias, however, if the researchers are aiming to investigate a phenomenon relating to specific gr oups of people (e.g. paramedics and trauma team members), then purposive sampling is appropriate to warrant the correct target group is selected (Newell Burnard, 2011). In addition, the researchers have explained how they have selected a representative trauma team sample; by involving individuals from different specialty groups involved in management of trauma patients (e.g. burns, anaesthetics). There is no record of anyone who chose not to take part. Data collected via semi-structured interviews was an appropriate way to address the research aims, but there are flaws. Researchers needed to record the subjective experiences of this group of professionals in order to determine the key factors causing communication errors. However, information such as the location of interviews is not stated. Japec (2008) points out how the social context of interviews can affect responses. We do not know whether interviews were carried out in a controlled environment (i.e. in the same room, similar time of day and without disturbances). Moreover, the researchers have not disclosed the reasons why the interview method was chosen. Moniff and Whitehead (2010) and Blaikie (2010) illustrate the importance of including this information, to allow the reader to see the relevance of chosen data collection techniques. Furthermore, there is no description of how the data was recorded; a vital element in research to increase confirmability and replicability (G errish Lacey 2010). The form of data cannot be distinguished through the software used (NVIVO 8.0) as it can upload text, videos and tape recordings (Edhlund, 2007). The use of a minimum topic guide for interviews ensures that similar data is collected from participants and eliminates the sequence of questions being different (Holloway Wheeler, 2010). However, the researchers were ambiguous when discussing their use of the topic guide in the study design. They state it was used when interviewing the trauma team speciality groups about the minimum dataset for handover, yet, do not clearly state whether it was used for questions on effective and ineffective handovers, data transmission or data display (even though these prompts appear in the topic guide). There is also no reference to use of the topic guide during interviewing paramedics (although paramedic specific questions are present on the guide leading to assumption that the guide was used). The interview method enhances data as it shows body language and non-verbal interactions (Gerrish Lacey, 2010). However, it can skew results: social desirability can lead to the participant answering a question so as to please the researcher or sound like a good practitioner (Rubin Babbie, 2010). In addition, the interviewer effect may occur (where interviewers subtly influence participants responses through wording of the questions or body language), especially as some researchers belonged to the professions being studied. In this research, the relationship between researchers and participants has not been sufficiently reflected upon. There has been no consideration of how reflexivity and experimenter bias may have influenced the choice of questions (e.g. the topic guide), the sample selection and location. With no comment on who developed the topic guide, we do not know if it was one researcher or a collaboration. This information is essential: if experimenter triangulation was utilised, this would decrease the chance of experimenter bias and reflexivity skewing the questions, increasing credibility of the research (Merrian, 2009). Researchers have not examined their role within sample recruitment either. One researcher is employed by Ambulance Victoria, and another by the Alfred Hospital Presumably personal backgrounds influenced the choice of these two institutions for sample collection, however, there is no personal reflexivity expressed to determine that they have considered their potential bias in this area. Reflexivity is critical in order to increase the rigor of the research; recognising how personal experiences, disposition and emotions can influence research choices allows researchers to compensate for this where possible, and understand the importance of documenting subjective issues (Kirby, Greaves Reid, 2006). In consideration of ethical issues, the researchers have not discussed how, or even if they briefed and debriefed the participants. Adequate briefing is essential do participants know exactly what to expect and are aware of their rights (Fowler, ONeill Helvert, 2011). Briefing also allows participants to give informed consent and avoids passive deception, whereby the researchers deceive participants by omission (Cottrell McKenzie, 2011). Debriefing is equally important, allowing participants to raise any issues experienced during the research (Jackson, 2011; Morrow, Boaz, Brearley Ross, 2012). An ethics committee has approved this research, meaning the emotional impacts on researchers and participants have been assessed and the safeguards and well-being of the participants have been evaluated (Holloway Wheeler, 2010). This implies that ethical considerations have adequately been taken into account, although more detail should have been provided. With respect to the data analysis, grounded theory is defined and clearly explained. In the abstract, thematic analysis was said to be used, but there is no reference to it in the data analysis section. There is, however a clear demonstration of its stages in the description of how the 3 nodes were developed through collecting reoccurring responses and developing them into codes and themes. Open coding has been used, which primarily allows codes and subsequently themes to emerge from the text alone; by using axial coding in addition, the researchers concepts and categories are implemented  whilst re-reading the text in order to check that categories truthfully represent responses and to examine how concepts are related, increasing credibility and validity (Babbie, 2012). However, researchers have not explained how they collaborated to determine what data to present, nor do they disclose any outliers or contradicting results. Reflexivity can affect this process as their subjective thoughts may influence their choices. The researchers have not considered this issue, resulting in reduced credibility (Brink, 2006). They refer to a general consensus when talking about the usability of MIST rather vague and ignoring differing responses. Nevertheless, sufficient data is presented to support the findings. Quotes are implemented to support the data and MIST is rewritten and displayed, including responses. The attribute box allows readers to distinguish differing views between professionals; adding credibility to the data transmission results. Finally, by assigning a third researcher, experimenter bias is reduced and to some degree helps the issue of reflexivity, as researchers past experiences will all differ, affecting how they may perceive participants ans wers, and subsequently code the text. Triangulation of researchers adds rigor to the research (Inoue, 2012). There is a relatively clear statement of findings in the research; data is affirmed under primary nodes developed by thematic analysis clearly and concisely and they are also logically discussed in the order of aims. Hinshaw (2011) emphasises the importance of clearly presented results to allow the reader easy access to the main outcomes and suggested action points. Specific quotes arising from the interviews to corroborate and increase dependability of the results (Streubert Carpenter, 2011). Discussions are made for and against the researchers suggestions. Supporting discussions include the concept of time out in theatres where team members pause and complete a checklist to ensure safety (this current practice boasts reduction in surgical error), reinforcing the results where paramedics state an effective handover is one where the receiving body stop and exercise listening skills. An example where researchers challenge their findings is the reference to a study, concluding informa tion recall of just 36% even when paramedics were provided with handover training. Using evidence to challenge their research demonstrates that the researchers are not prejudiced in favour of their own results and that they recognise the need to consider additional barriers (Brink, 2006). However, the researchers have not discussed the credibility of their findings; they have employed researcher triangulation to reduce intrinsic biases, but have not mentioned how this improves credibility and rigor in the discussion. There is no comment about respondent validation, raising the question whether this was carried out. It is a of checking the truthfulness of research, by giving participants the findings to comment on if there is any misinterpretation: an effective way of reducing researcher bias (Pope Mays, 2006). The value of this research is limited: the researchers acknowledge their results form a basis for development and recognise that trails and further research must be carried out. Findings are discussed in light of current practice, recognising that the MIST tool needs to be trialled further. Researchers also acknowledge that training will have to be developed for paramedics (as with any new proposed method in ambulance services). It is stated that noise barriers need to be evaluated, however, no new areas of research are proposed. Researchers have not discussed whether their research can be transferred to other populations. They have briefly discussed generalizability, stating the research should be generalised to other hospitals with caution as the data was collected in a busy referral hospital. They also recognise that selecting paramedics with experience in trauma settings can lead to decreased generalizability, as paramedics with less trauma experience may have differing views. In conclusion, this research boasts excellent presentation and structure comprising strong background and aims. Utilising qualitative methodology enabled researchers to gain subjective experiences and views from healthcare professionals to provide a deeper understanding of how communication errors occur during handover and propose a multifactorial strategy for improvement. It could be argued that the researchers are not developing a new theory, therefore not utilising grounded theory correctly, however, there is ample literature disputing this, stating that it is acceptable to build on existing theory in order to develop a new one. The research has been carried out in the light of the original aims throughout and the results are clearly presented, with additional quotes to enforce points. However, there is minimal consideration of potential biases and the effect of reflexivity, reducing credibility. Furthermore, many methods have not been justified (research method, use of grounded t heory, data collection and data presentation) leading to overall low rigor and credibility. Finally, it is recognised that this research will not change future practice without further research and trailing. Nevertheless, the original data collected here and strategies for improvement presented make this research a valuable contribution to the field. (182) =2199 References Babbie, E. (2012). The practice of social research. (13th ed.). Wadsworth: Cengage Learning. Blaikie, N. (2010). Designing social research. (2nd ed.). Cambridge: Polity Press. Block, D. (2006). Healthcare outcomes management: strategies for planning and evaluation. London: Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Bowling, A. Ebrahim, S. (2005). Handbook of health research methods: investigation, measurement and analysis. Berkshire: Open University Press. Brink, H. (2006). Fundamentals for research methodology for health care professionals. (2nd ed). Cape Town: Juta Co. Chears, V. (2009). Taking a strand for others: a grounded theory. USA: ProQuest LLC. Collins, H. (2010). Creative research: the theory and practice of research for the creative industries. London: AVA Publishing. Cottrell, R. McKenzie, J. (2011). Health promotion education research methods: using the five-chapter thesis/dissertation model. (2nd ed.). London: Jones and Bartlett Publishers. Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP). (2006). Qualitative research: appraisal tool. 10 questions to help you make sense of qualitative research. Oxford: Public Health Resource Unit. Daymon, C. Holloway, I. (2011). Qualitative research methods in public relations and marketing communications. (2nd ed.). Oxfordshire: Routledge. Edhlund, B. (2007). NVivo essentials: the ultimate help when you work with qualitative analysis. Stallarholmen: Form Kunskap. Evans, S., Murray, A., Patrick, I., Fitzgerald, M., Smith, S. Cameron, P. (2010). Clinical handover in the trauma setting: a qualitative study of paramedics and trauma team members. BMJ: Quality and Safety Health Care, 19(6), 1-6. Fowler, C., ONeill, L. Helvert, J. (2011). The handboom of emergent technologies in social research. New York: Oxford University Press. Gerrish, K. Lacey, A. (2010). The research process in nursing. (6th ed.). Sussex: Blackwell Publishing. Giles, D. (2002). Advanced research methods in psychology. Sussex: Routledge. Henandez, C. (2011). Grounded theory: the philosophy method, and work of barney glaser. USA: Brown Walker Press. Hinshaw, A. (2011). Shaping health policy through nursing research. New York: Springer Publishing. Inoue, A. (2012). Writing studies research in practice: methods and methodologies. USA: Southern Illinois University Press. Jackson, S. (2011). Research methods: a modular approach. (2nd ed.). Wadsworth: Cengage Learning. Japec, L. (2008). Advances in telephone survey methodology. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Khan, J. (2008). Research methodology. New Delhi: APH Publishing. Kirby, S., Greaves, L. Reid, C. (2006). Experience research social change: methods beyond the mainstream. (2nd ed.). Ontario: Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication. Merrian, S. (2009). Qualitative research: a guide to design and implementation. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Moniff, J. Whitehead, J. (2010). You and your action research project. (3rd ed.). Oxfordshire: Routeledge. Monsen, E. Horn, L. (2008). Research: successful approaches. (3rd ed.). USA: Diana Faulhaber. Morrow, E., Boaz, A., Brearley, S. Ross, F. (2012). Handbook of service user involvement in nursing healthcare research. Sussex: John Wiley Sons. Newell, R. Burnard, P. (2011). Research for evidence based practice in healthcare. (2nd ed.). Sussex: John Wiley Sons. Pope, C. Mays, N. (2006). Qualitative research in healthcare. (3rd ed.). Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Rubin, A. Babbie, E. (2010). Essential research methods for social work. (2nd ed.). Belmont: Cengage Learning. Stommel, M. Wills, C. (2004). Clinical research: concepts and principles for advanced practice nurses. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams Wilkins. Streubert, H. Carpenter, D. (2011). Qualitative research in nursing. (5th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams Wilkins. Williams, J. (2012). The paramedics guide to research: an introduction. Berkshire: Open University Press.

Sunday, January 19, 2020

Communities Essay -- Group Communication Community Essays

Communitites When most people talk about community, they think of a location, an area in which people live. By definition â€Å"community† is a group of people living in the same location and under the same government. Community can also be defined as a group of people with the same common interests or segments in society. However, these definitions, which can be found in any dictionary, are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to explaining what community really is. Community is the memories and traditions of a certain area, as well as the interactions and responsibilities of its members. In order to truly belong to a community people must follow a set of values. These communal values are needed to provide stability among communities in this ever changing world. In the past ten years, with the advent of the internet and many other forms of communication, communities have become less interactive and isolated. In this paper I will be discussing the purpose of communal values and why t hey should be protected. Having a sense of belonging within a community is very important. Many people who have moved since childhood will always remember where they grew up. It is the memories and history they have there that will always make it home. In the play The Piano Lesson, the author shows the conflict between Boy Willie and his sister Berniece both of whom are African American. The conflict of the story centers on gaining a sense of belonging from one’s past. Boy Willie wishes to buy the land where his ancestors were slaves. In doing this Boy Willie must sell an antique piano which has been in his family for generations. Berniece wishes to hold on to the antique piano because it holds the history of their family in its unique carvings. In Boy Willie’s mind, gaining the piece of land would make his life meaningful and give him a sense of belonging. This story shows how the powerful bonds of memories and history are enough to create conflict between even the closest individuals. However , sense of belonging in a community does not require the history and memories of a place. People can gain a sense of belonging from simple but meaningful acts within the community. In Scott Russell Sanders’s essay on community, he explains how simple acts such as making bread with his daughter and children from the neighborhood gives him a sense of belonging and hope. Communal inte... ...o their communities as a whole. Throughout this paper we see the common problem of limiting the interactions between community members, and how this will hurt communities. Only when these issues become so evident that they begin to cause large problems will they be looked at, and by that time it could be too late. Schools now should be teaching children the importance of group thought and how it forms the basis of community structure around the world. The children of the future must not be sheltered from the outside world with new technology and packaged communities. Works Cited Collie, Tim. â€Å"In 21st Century, Americans are increasingly mobile creatures.† Sun-Sentinel [Fort Lauderdale, FL] 3 Jan. 2001: A4. Ehrenfeld, David. â€Å"Pseudocommunities.† Vitek and Jackson 20-24. Kline, David. â€Å"An Amish Perspective.† Vitek and Jackson 35-40. Paige, Harry W. â€Å"Leave If You Can.† Vitek and Jackson 11-14. Sanders, Scott Russell. â€Å"The Common Life.† Vitek and Jackson 40-49. Tall, Deborah. â€Å"Dwelling: Making Peace with Space and Place.† Vitek and Jackson 104-12. Vitek, William, and Wes Jackson, eds. Rooted In The Lan: Essays on Community and Place. New Haven: Yale UP, 1996.

Saturday, January 11, 2020

Childhood Essay

reports that social class plays a very important role in a child’s upbringing because it helps determine the way a child will be raised. In Lareau’s (2003) study she came to the conclusion that there were two different patterns of child rearing: concerted cultivation and natural growth. Concerted cultivation is the child rearing method that middle class parents use focusing on not only caring for their child, but developing a personality by enrolling their children in many structured activities and developing language skills (Lareau, 2003).Natural growth is the child-rearing method that working class and poor parents use to raise their children because there is not a lot of time and money for structured activities and long verbal discussions with the children (Lareau, 2003). Families who practice natural growth child rearing practices need to focus on providing the simpler needs of the child like providing shelter, clothing, food, and water therefore unable to have the structured activities and worry about establishing communication skills. This is important to consider because the way children are raised because this has a social impact.The children that are being raised today will eventually grow up to be a part of their own society; there are social impacts on the current society because of the methods of child-rearing and the consequences that these child-rearing practices are having on children with the way they interact in society, There are benefits and disadvantages to both childrearing methods reported by Lareau (2010) however there are definitive differences in the child’s outcome due to the child’s social class and thus the method the child was raised with.In concerted cultivation children spend a lot of time with adults at structured activities and so they start to communicate with adults as relative equals. The children of concerted cultivation also have longer and more reasoning conversations with their parents which le ads them to the sense of entitlement when dealing with institutions (Lareau, 2003). Children raised with concerted cultivation had a larger group of language skills than children raised with natural growth because they communicate longer and more often with adults.This leads to children raised with concerted cultivation having the ability to manipulate rules and thus deal with institutions easier than those of natural growth, however they also have issues figuring out how to occupy their time because they did not often do â€Å"free play† (Lareau, 2003). The children that are raised with natural growth have less communication skills simply because they have less experience talking to adults (Lareau, 2003).Parents of natural growth have to worry about putting food on the table and taking care of many basic needs so when the children are spoken to its often in short direct phrases, without any room for questioning or discussing. The children who are raised with natural growth a lso do not have that much time spent in structured activities with adults as the children of concerted cultivation (Lareau, 2003). The children who are raised with natural growth developed what Lareau (2003) reported as constraint.Constraint was the disadvantage that natural growth children experience because of their lack of communication skills and the subordination they felt to adults. Children raised with natural growth absorbed their parents feelings of powerlessness with institutions and learned to distrust authority. These differences tend to perpetuate themselves when it comes to differences in child rearing because what class a child is raised in impacts his/her life and then when that child grows up and has children of their own the child rearing practice will most likely be used again if the child grows up to live in the same social class.It is a cycle that continues throughout generations because children usually grow up to be in the same social class they were born into and since the child rearing practices are social class based primarily the children will raise their children as they were raised. After reading Lareau’s (2003) case study I had to do some reflection to figure out with method of child-rearing it was that I was raised in. My family has crossed the line from middle class to working class several times through my childhood, but predominately I feel as if I have been raised using concerted cultivation.My mother and father separated by the time I was seven years old. While at times living with my mother basic necessities were hard to come by because of her poor management of finances, my father always was middle class (I lived with him permanently from age 15 on) and I feel as if I have been raised a middle class child. Since, I was younger I now realize I was active in many structured activities such as: ballet, tap, jazz, girl scouts, youth group at church, choir, bell choir, church plays, cheerleading, cross-country, track, an d swim team.Although I did not always think of the activities I participated in to be particularly hard on my family at the time I now realize with my brother, two sisters, and all of their activates my mother must have found it very hard to transport us all to our different activities. The number of activities I was involved in during my childhood shows proof of my upbringing being concerted cultivation because one of the characteristics of being raised with concerted cultivation is a lot of structured activities such as the ones I participated in (Lareau, 2003).Another concept of concerted cultivation which I know I have also be blessed with in my child-rearing is the better communication skills due to long discussions and reasoning with my parents (Lareau, 2003). Both of my parents have always encouraged my sisters, brother, and me to talk openly and voice our opinions. I did not realized it growing up, but now I understand that the lengthy communications I had with my parents en abled me to have a larger vocabulary, good communication skills, and feel comfortable when talking to authority or adults from institutions.The sense of entitlement I feel due to my middle class upbringing makes sense because of the amount of time I spent in structured activities with adults (Lareau, 2003). The time I spent with adults as a child and the way I spoke to them made them relative equals in my perspective. This is an advantage of having a concerted cultivation middle class upbringing because I do not mistrust authority or feel subordinate to intuitions, on the contrary I feel as if they are to serve me and that I can work with institutions to get both my and the institutions needs met.It makes sense that my entitlement feelings allow me to perform well in college and to communication effectively with all professors or staff at the college because of the experience I had dealing with institutions when I was younger. Another concept of concerted cultivation that I have exp erienced in childhood has to do with social connections. Much like Lareau’s (2003) case study has reported concerted cultivation raised children had weak ties with their extended family.This is true in my upbringing because while I love and sometimes talk to my extended family I seldom see them or would by any means categorize our relationships as strong kinship ties (Lareau, 2003). This I feel has been an unfortunate result of concerted cultivation because I see how some of my other cousins behave towards each other as they are so close talking everyday and meet several times a week for lunch or dinner.I feel this is sad because while I would love to have stronger ties with my extended family I realize it is not a part of the way I was brought up because of my middleclass child-rearing. The concept of my social connections often being mostly in homogenous age groups as a child is very accurate (Lareau, 2003). Because of the activities I participated in and the area in which I lived and went to school I predominately have friendships through activities with children much like I was at the time.