Adult Learning in Cohort Groups :: Adult Education Cohorts Essays

Adult Learning in Cohort Groups [According to a cohort participant,] cohorts are created not born. They are successful when everyone works collaboratively and collectively on improving their own and others' learning experiences. It takes self-responsibility, patience, courage, humor, commitment, sensitivity, and a lot of hard work to create such an enriching learning experience for everybody. (Nesbit 2001, p. 3) Learning in groups has historical roots in adult education and many adult educators use group learning as an element of their programs (ibid.). Recently, a form of group learning—cohorts—has emerged as an attractive option for administrators, instructors, and participants alike (Fahy 2002). Cohorts are usually defined as groups of students who enroll at the same time and go through a program by taking the same courses at the same time, a process that is sometimes referred to as lock step (e.g., Chairs et al. 2002; Reynolds and Hebert 1998). A cohort is much more than a structure, however (Norris and Barnett 1994). It is "a tight-knit, reliable, common-purpose group" (Drago-Severson et al. 2001, p. 15) that has foundations in group dynamics, adult development, and adult learning theory (ibid.; Nesbit 2001; Norris and Barnett 1994). This Brief highlights findings from research and theory on adult learning cohorts to examine how cohorts are structured or formed and the exp erience of the learning process within cohorts. Recommendations for practice are provided. Forming and Structuring Cohorts A cohort is more than an administrative arrangement. In fact, "to view the [cohort] structure merely as a method of course delivery, a vehicle for socialization, a convenient scheduling design, or as an upbeat, fashionable 'in' approach is to do cohort structure an injustice" (Norris and Barnett 1994, p. 34). Cohorts must be purposefully formed and structured if they are to succeed as environments that foster learning and development. Both individual and group development are important aspects of cohorts (Chairs et al. 2002; Lawrence 1997; Norris and Barnett 1994). Cohort structure should support the personal development of its members within a collaborative, cohesive group environment. Research on cohorts (e.g., Brooks 1998; Chairs et al. 2002; Lawrence 1997; Maher 2001; Norris and Barnett 1994) reveals that successful cohorts balance the needs of the group with those of the individual members by fostering a sense of belonging, creating an environment in which mutual respect flourishes, supporting risk taking, providing a place for critical reflection and the development of shared understanding, and encouraging and sustaining multiple perspectives. Adult Learning in Cohort Groups :: Adult Education Cohorts Essays Adult Learning in Cohort Groups [According to a cohort participant,] cohorts are created not born. They are successful when everyone works collaboratively and collectively on improving their own and others' learning experiences. It takes self-responsibility, patience, courage, humor, commitment, sensitivity, and a lot of hard work to create such an enriching learning experience for everybody. (Nesbit 2001, p. 3) Learning in groups has historical roots in adult education and many adult educators use group learning as an element of their programs (ibid.). Recently, a form of group learning—cohorts—has emerged as an attractive option for administrators, instructors, and participants alike (Fahy 2002). Cohorts are usually defined as groups of students who enroll at the same time and go through a program by taking the same courses at the same time, a process that is sometimes referred to as lock step (e.g., Chairs et al. 2002; Reynolds and Hebert 1998). A cohort is much more than a structure, however (Norris and Barnett 1994). It is "a tight-knit, reliable, common-purpose group" (Drago-Severson et al. 2001, p. 15) that has foundations in group dynamics, adult development, and adult learning theory (ibid.; Nesbit 2001; Norris and Barnett 1994). This Brief highlights findings from research and theory on adult learning cohorts to examine how cohorts are structured or formed and the exp erience of the learning process within cohorts. Recommendations for practice are provided. Forming and Structuring Cohorts A cohort is more than an administrative arrangement. In fact, "to view the [cohort] structure merely as a method of course delivery, a vehicle for socialization, a convenient scheduling design, or as an upbeat, fashionable 'in' approach is to do cohort structure an injustice" (Norris and Barnett 1994, p. 34). Cohorts must be purposefully formed and structured if they are to succeed as environments that foster learning and development. Both individual and group development are important aspects of cohorts (Chairs et al. 2002; Lawrence 1997; Norris and Barnett 1994). Cohort structure should support the personal development of its members within a collaborative, cohesive group environment. Research on cohorts (e.g., Brooks 1998; Chairs et al. 2002; Lawrence 1997; Maher 2001; Norris and Barnett 1994) reveals that successful cohorts balance the needs of the group with those of the individual members by fostering a sense of belonging, creating an environment in which mutual respect flourishes, supporting risk taking, providing a place for critical reflection and the development of shared understanding, and encouraging and sustaining multiple perspectives.

The Time Machine :: Free Essay Writer

The Time Machine The Time Traveller had built a time machine that would allow him to journey through time. He traveled into the future to the year 802,700. It is an extremely different world. It seemed almost utopian-like populated by a childish people, the Eloi. He studied and observed these creatures. Then his time machine was stolen. It is then when he discovers the existence of another people, the vicious Morlocks. Unlike, the nonchalant Eloi, the Morlocks live in desperation and must survive by cannibalism. It seems like a Capitalist system gone wrong with the upper class (Eloi) and the lower class (Morlocks). The lazy rich would play and relax all day becoming frail and helpless. Meanwhile, the poor were living underground and began to hunt the Eloi. The theory that a proletariat driven to the depths will devour the upper class is exemplified. While in search of his time machine, the Time Traveller learned about this future world. He befriends an Eloi, who he named Weena. Then he himself was hunted by the Morlocks. He escaped by scaring them with fire. The Morlocks had hidden his machine. He finally found it and returned back to his own time and home in England. The Time Machine certainly makes you think. We picture the future as very advanced and evolved with much more technology than we have now. But in this novel, the reader can see that the progress of mankind could almost go in a cycle. We start off at a low level and as a species, we grow and evolve becoming more advanced. We can only reach a certain peak before we go back down again, which is what happened to the Eloi and the Morlocks. It is interesting to note that technology is not what saved the Time Traveller from these future people. It was fire. Fire scared and killed the Morlocks. In this future, there is no sign of knowledge and what was learned in all of the years of the past. The museums, which are supposed to be filled with all of mankind's greatest achievements, were all in ruins. No one seemed to care.

Origins of World War II :: World War II History

Origins of World War II World War II was much more than battles, statistics, politics, and opinions. The things that contributed to its beginning, what happened during the war, and the effects of the war are still being debated and discussed. Patrick Finney assembles some of the best writings for a number of subjects relating to World War II. First the reader is introduced to the basic views, where they originated, and why they are still discussed today. The truth is, even fifty years after the end of the war, it is still very much part of our lives. Finney's first collection of readings are written on the subject of what contributes to the war. Two of the authors have very different opinions on Chamberlain, and they focus on his actions preluding the war. There is also an writing describing the French during this period, and finally there are two authors whom debate about the state of Germany at this time. After the conditions of Great Britian, France, and Germany have been addressed, Finney explains the goals, economics, strategies, and policies of the countries that contributed to the breakout of war. The last section addresses the topics of the Spanish Civil War and its effects on World War II, what happened at Munich and how it effected Hitler in the long run, the strategies and policies regarding a German attack on Poland, and finally the major points of the war and the post-war effects. The selection of essays and writings were excellent for supporting the theme Finney was aspiring to fulfill. His goal in writing was to represent the major powers World War II and keep the attention balanced between all of the involved countries. The credibility of the writers involved in this book appeared to be very good. Simply by listing their credentials in Finney's commentaries, one can assume that they are respectable. Most of the authors have written extensively on the topic that Finney publishes in his book, therefore you know that they researched more than what was written in Finney's book. Since most of Finney's commentary consisted of interpretations and explanations of the readings that would follow, there was not a great deal of facts to be misrepresented by Finney himself. The commentaries were a excellent was to start off the readings. Finney provided an understanding of what the writer was going to say, not only in support of what they were going to say, but also provided some comments on opposing opinions.

Chinese philosophy Essay

The pair lived in a time of immense social disorder and religious skepticism. They developed the notion of the Dao (way, or path) as the origin of all creation and the force (unknowable in its essence but observable in its manifestations) that lies behind the functions and changes of the natural world. Daoism Chinese religion â€Å"mirrors the social landscape of its adherents. There are as many meanings as there are vantage points.† This can be very confusing to outsiders†¦ Daoism and Confucianism existed together. At various points in one life, you might follow either. (There are many who only practice one) Due to the social disorder of the time, the question was: what is the basis of a stable, unified, and enduring social order? Their answer was the Dao. Nature, after all, was much more stable than anything humans can create. Healthy human life could flourish only in accordance with Dao. Nature, simplicity, a free-and-easy approach to life. Daoism  To be skillful and creative, they had to have inner spiritual concentration and put aside concern with externals, such as monetary rewards, fame, and praise. Artisans were typically very good at this idea. When stressed, or seeking an escape, the Daoist might retire to the countryside, or mountains and write a poem or paint a picture. This was an attempt to capture the simplicity of nature in their own lives. Daoism In Chinese society, Daoism created the Chinese love of nature It also inspired an intense affirmation of life: physical life: health, well-being, vitality, longevity, and even immortality. Some Chinese sought the fountain of youth, or herbs and plants that would extend life. This lead to the wealth of knowledge in Chinese medicine. Daoism There were kind of gods†¦ The gods and Jade Emperor could be seen as the supreme rulers. Obeying the rulers on earth would prepare you to follow him later on. The demons and ghosts of hell acted like and were treated like the bullies, outlaws, and strangers in the real world. All things were the manifestation of the one Dao.

Literary Elements of Wharton’s ‘Roman Fever

The short story, â€Å"Roman Fever† by Edith Wharton, reveals numerous popular literary elements. Some of the most prominent examples of literary elements are irony, symbolism, and foreshadowing. All three elements create the feel and atmosphere of the short story. They add illustration, mystery, and humor to the storyline. The irony in â€Å"Roman Fever† begins when the two daughters refer to their mothers as â€Å"young things†. This is verbal irony because their two mothers were described as aged and matronly, so the daughters were obviously mocking their mothers (Petry 1). When Alida Slade reveals that she wrote the letter to Grace Ansley telling her to meet Delphin at the Colosseum instead of Delphin himself, it is situational irony because all along, Grace thought that Delphin had wrote her the letter and had believed it for twenty five years. All that time, Alida had the idea that she had tricked Grace, but when Grace informed her that Delphin had actually showed up at the Colosseum that night, it is situational irony again. When Alida tries to regain her superiority again, she says â€Å"I had him for twenty-five years. And you had nothing but that one letter that he didn't write. â€Å", which is situational irony because Grace then reveals that Delphin was Barbara’s actual father, which Alida did not expect. Another thing that made it ironic was that she realized that Delphin had fathered a child that she felt superior to her own (Phelan 1). Wharton incorporated many symbols into â€Å"Roman Fever†. The one that sets the story off is the knitting, which at first seems like a minor element. In fact, it is the first matter to receive attention in the story, brought about by the daughters. They say to leave the â€Å"young things to their knitting†, which is said sarcastically, as if their mothers are intellectually, emotionally, and physically incapable of doing any other activity besides something as simple as knitting. This was supposed to make the two mothers appear as stereotypical middle aged women (Petry 1). The crimson of the silk that Grace takes out of her bag symbolizes passion (Petry 1). The black of her handbag symbolizes the gloom of guilt (Selina 1). Also, the knitting is a symbol of the weaving of lies that went on between Grace, Alida and Delphin, which explains why Alida does not like to knit (â€Å"Explanation of: â€Å"Roman Fever† by Edith Wharton†). Another symbol is the threat of getting sick. All through the story, the women mention Roman fever, which was going around while they were both in Rome as teenagers. Grace and Alida were both afraid of catching it. Alida hoped that Grace would get it while waiting for Delphin at the Colosseum, and although Alida’s complete plan did not work, Grace did eventually catch Roman fever (â€Å"Explanation of: â€Å"Roman Fever† by Edith Wharton†). The setting of Rome is also a symbol, because the ruins that surrounds the city. It symbolizes the ruined relationship between Grace and Alida (â€Å"Explanation of: â€Å"Roman Fever† by Edith Wharton† 1). Also, it is also a symbol because Rome is a famously feminine city, so it added to the independent femininity of the story (Voeller 1). Foreshadowing is a key element in â€Å"Roman Fever†. It starts at the beginning with the description of the women. Grace Ansley is described as small, pale, and unsure of herself. Alida Slade is described as higher in color and confident. These two details indicate that Alida would be intimidating to Grace, and that her personality is more domineering (Petry 2). When Wharton writes, â€Å"Half guiltily she withdrew from her handsomely mounted black handbag a twist of red crimson†, it foreshadows that Grace is slightly afraid of Alida and she has some secrets that Alida does not know about. Towards the beginning, Wharton also mentioned that Alida Slade is not fond of knitting, which was unusual for someone of her age at that time. This shows that she is different from your average middle-aged woman, and that she and Grace do not have many things in common about their personality (Petry 1). When Alida Slade and Grace Ansley are looking at their daughters having fun in the moonlight, and Grace says â€Å"And perhaps we didn't know much more about each other†, it shows that some drama is about to occur, and that she knew she had things that Alida did not know about her, and also that perhaps Alida felt the same way (Selina 1). Roman Fever† demonstrates countless excellent cases of irony, symbolism, and foreshadowing. Different kinds of irony make â€Å"Roman Fever† entertaining during dialogue. Symbolism gives the story deeper meaning in small actions, for instance knitting, and setting details. Foreshadowing in the story baffles and intrigues. In conclusion, these are the three vital literary elements in Edith Wharton’s â€Å"Roman Fever†. They capture the reader from the playful beginning to the jaw dropping end.

Multinational Operations in China

Obtaining a big profit is a good sign of success of a company. But before you achieve this kind of accomplishment, one must know the important things that should be considered in doing a business. If a company wants to business in China, one must have a clear understanding of the locale or in particular China where you want to established it. . It is very important to understand and comprehend yourself with the culture of a country before investing capital in your business. China is one of the largest nations in the world and in fact the most populous country in the world; hence there is a wide range of diversity in culture, beliefs and behavior. The company must first understand it before undertaking operations in China. By doing so, one can established a greater possibility of surviving and even succeeding in the venture taken. The company must also know the local business practices before you do business in a particular area in China. China has most diverse cultural differences in the world and understanding its business culture is very vital. Since every country has different culture, what works with one country can not be appropriate for China. Becoming aware of how people think and their business practices can establish better and harmonious relationship with them. Organizational practices, activities and policies must be flexible and adaptable so that it can accustom easily with China’s practices. Having a representative office in union with a strong local private partner and which has access to all important information is very strategic and help to attain success. Setting up a joint venture is a good move for a company but one must ensure that they have selected the correct partner or else both companies will end up in failure. In the management part, Chinese expertise must be integrated or consulted in the decision making process. This will guaranteed that all aspect of China is considered before making a decision. There is a big need of establishing business relationships. Relationship or also known as Guanxi is an essential component in attaining success in China. Top level manager must know the importance of establishing and nurturing close relationship with their customer, supplier and their local counterparts. It is a great help in knowing the domestic market of China and also builds a strong bond that the company can use in need of assistance or in case of trouble. Company must also build a strong relationship with the China’s government officials. Government is the main factor in the economic movements. They play a vital role in ensuring economic stability and administering foreign investments. Approval, application, and authorization of the business can encountered fewer interruptions or delays if one has already established good relations with the regime. Company must know the financial system of China in doing business here. People’s Bank of China is the one responsible for the establishment and implementation of macroeconomic and fiscal policies. PBOC is also responsible for the regulation of currency circulation and domestic financial activities. Seniority is an important in China. Hence, one must be polite in conversing with older people.   Labor relations are also an important factor to secure business stability. The company must established good relations with their employees. They must look for their welfare. The company need human resources, without them company operations may be suspended and may eventually result to the closure of the company if not handled well. It is also important to recognize the preferential policies offered in China so one can be able to take advantage of it. These policies stimulate foreign investments. Industrial policies monitor foreign investment projects. They are classified as encouraged, permitted, restricted and prohibited. China has extremely promoted the subsequent measures to protect intellectual property rights. In fact China has decreed the Patent, Trademark and Copyright law in order to secure such rights. Works must be registered to the related authorities. In line with this, the government of China proclaimed several security measures to monitor the import publication and reproduction of recorded tapes, video tapes and the like. State Press and Publications Administration, must first grant an approval on the import goods and necessary permit papers must ne obtained. It is subjected to further examination of products. Violation of these security measures may result to subtraction of illegal income and closure of business and payment of fines. China has also required all enterprises to maintain books or accounts for all their business related activities. At the end of the year, they are required to pass an annual financial report. Thus, a company that wants a business in China should know this financial reporting and accounting policy. Tax is the main source of fiscal income of China. It plays an important role in strengthening the macro-economic regulation which is responsible for economic and social development. On the other hand, taxation policies are relatively important in every company. Tax contribute to the input cost of the company, thus it is needed to know the tax policy before doing production and market operations. Also, one can know which kind of business has lower or reduced tax and even exempted to pay such kind of charge. Given those kinds of considerations, tips and reminders on doing business in China, the company would surely make profit on it.   Based on the research employee welfare, labor relations are indeed important factors in establishing a business in China. Although the CEO does not believe on this and my only task as a researcher is to gather strategic information, I will still include those findings.   As a prudent researcher, it is important to include such information because it may affect the company; operations, activities and profit.   My task is to gather strategic information on business in China and these findings I assume is still part of my job. If I do not include such information on the research, this may create trouble for the company. My point is, it is safe to include it on the research since I just give it as an extra detail. The task is now on my CEO; whether he still wants to adopt his beliefs or these new finding. References Coble International. (1988-2008). Doing Business in China. Retrieved April 17, 2008 from http://www.importexporthelp.com/doing-business-in-china.htm. Lee, Joseph. Analysis of the Failure and Success of Doing Business in China. Retrieved April 17, 2008 from http://www.china-window.com/china_business/doing_ PKF: Accountants and Business Advisers. Doing Business in China. Retrieved April 17, 2008 from http://www.pkf.com/jahia/webdav/site/pkf/users/emma Williams, De'Edra. (1998-2008). China. Retrieved April 17, 2008 from http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/china.htm.

American Has Too Many Malls Essay

Many traditional brick-and-mortar retailers are being threatened with â€Å"economic destruction† by their online competition. I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time looking at this issue, and I believe we’re seeing clear signs that the e-commerce revolution is seriously impacting commercial real estate and will continue to do so. Online retailers are relentlessly acquiring success in many retail categories. As a result, many offline businesses are fighting to survive for their economic life. A number of physical retailers have already succumbed to online competition including Circuit City, Borders, CompUSA, Tower Records and Blockbuster. Many other physical businesses are also showing signs of serious economic distress. While many of these large businesses collapsed due to their inability to compete online, The shopping mall is also in danger from the â€Å"online shopping revolution. † Many malls are closing stores by the thousands, and there are few large physical chains opening stores to take their place. The recession in 2008 was the catalyst for bringing down many of these businesses, but competition from online retailers continued the financial difficulties for many offline retailers. The mall business isn’t economically healthy either. Most professionals understand that profound changes are afoot. Don Wood, CEO of federal realty investment trust, says â€Å"there is too much retail supply in this country. † The wall street journal reports: green street advisor (forecasts) that 10 percent of the roughly 1,000 large malls in the U. S. will fail within the next 10 years †¦. That’s a conservative estimate. Many mall CEOs predict the failure rate will be higher. I agree with the above perspectives. A report from Co-Star observes that there are more than 200 malls that have vacancy rates of 35 percent or higher. This is a â€Å"clear marker for shopping center distress. † In short, These malls are becoming ghost towns. They are not economically successful now and will only get less so as online business continues to steal retail sales from physical stores. Hundreds of malls will soon need to be repurposed or demolished. Strong malls will stay successful for a while since retailers are willing to pay for foot traffic and customers, but even they stand in the path of the shift of retail spending from offline to online. However, despite the decline of physical commerce, there has been a huge rise in online commerce. If I were thinking of starting a new retail brand right now, I would unquestionably start it online. many very talented entrepreneurs are doing just this. I personally shop at Bonobos for pants, J. Hilburn for sweaters, Ledbury for shirts and Warby Parker for eyeglasses. In the past, these retailers have started in the mall but they now are starting online. This is a trend that will undoubtedly continue. There will clearly be fewer new offline retailers to take the space vacated by the disappearing brick-and-mortar chains. This puts further pressure on malls to try and make money. While doing research for this article, I came across a fascinating website called deadmalls. com. it is a site that chronicles the stories of hundreds of already or soon-to-be dead malls. Unfortunately for mall owners and people who work inside them, the content on deadmalls. com is about to expand substantially. There just are too many malls in America, and this will only get worse.