Meet the Xenarthrans - Armadillos, Sloths, and Anteaters

Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters, also known as xenarthrans (Greek for strange joints), can be distinguished from other mammals by (among other things) the unique joints in their backbones that endow them with the strength and support they need to pursue their climbing or burrowing lifestyles. These mammals are also characterized by their extremely few (or even no teeth), their relatively small brains, and (in males) their internal testicles. As youll know if youve ever seen a sloth in action, xenarthrans are also some of the slowest mammals on earth; they are technically warm-blooded, like other mammals, but their physiologies arent nearly as robust as those of dogs, cats or cows. Xenarthrans are an ancient group of placental mammals that once roamed across the expanse of Gondwana, before this giant continent of the southern hemisphere split up to form South America, Africa, India, Arabia, New Zealand, and Australia. The ancestors of modern armadillos, sloths and anteaters were initially isolated on the newborn continent of South America, but in the ensuing millions of years spread northward into areas of Central America and southern parts of North America. Although xenarthrans didnt make it into Africa, Asia, and Australia, these regions are home to unrelated mammals (like aardvarks and pangolins) that evolved the same general body plans, a classic example of convergent evolution. One little-known fact about xenarthrans is that they were prone to gigantism during the Cenozoic Era, at a time when many mammals achieved dinosaur-like sizes thanks to temperate climates and an abundance of food. Glyptodon, also known as the Giant Anteater, could weigh up to two tons, and its hollowed-out shells were sometimes used by the early human inhabitants of South America to shelter from the rain, while the giant sloths Megatherium and Megalonyx were about the size of the largest bears on earth today! There are about 50 species of xenarthrans extant today, ranging from the screaming hairy armadillo of South America to the pygmy three-toed sloth of the Panamanian coast. Classification of Xenarthrans Armadillos, sloths, and anteaters are classified within the following taxonomic hierarchy: Animals Chordates Vertebrates Tetrapods Amniotes Mammals Armadillos, sloths and anteaters In addition, armadillos, sloths, and anteaters are divided into the following taxonomic groups: Anteaters and sloths (Pilosa)Armadillos (Cingulata)

A Night to Remember Decadence of The Titanic Essay

The Soap ad in the 1958 film A Night to Remember is one of the first implications of social class that is illustrated throughout the entire film. It begins by first introducing the viewer to the middle class hero, Lightoller and his view of the class system of 1912 where he mocks the discrepancy of class aboard the Titanic amongst the elites and the lower class passengers (Bruce). And despite this, the advertisement seems to better illustrate the idea of decadence that is found on the ship. As already noted, the scene seems to mock the elite class as Lightoller states that the soap is â€Å"for the first-class passengers, mark you. The rest don’t wash† (A Night to Remember). It is here, that class is clearly evident through the reaction of the†¦show more content†¦By advertising these social embellishments, it advertises the high class sophistications of the ship and is therefore attempting to attract the upper class with its promise of arriving to lavish desti nations on one of the most technologically advanced and its luxury living accommodations. The fact that Lightoller pokes fun at this single line demonstrates his social standing as a middle class citizen. The contrast the social classes in this film by this single scene is also evident through the reactions of the characters. As already noted the elite couple is stiff, uptight and are humorless towards Lightoller’s reaction to the Titanic’s embellishments. As opposed to Lightoller and his wife’s reaction whose is mocking and giggling at the elitist notion of luxury. And also makes a note saying â€Å"soap is no laughing matter† (A Night to Remember). As a means to not offend the upper class passengers, Lightoller remarks that he is not necessarily poking fun at the elite social class but he is only mocking â€Å"of the embellishments† (A Night to Remember). Although the viewer is given a clear distinction as it allows us to believe that he is inde ed making fun of the upper class treatment of the lower class. It is clear that even at the beginning of the film, the motif of decadence amongst the elite classes is evident throughout the entire film. Howell’s makes anShow MoreRelatedOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 Pagesturned blank walls to the street, often had lovely gardens in interior courtyards. Shop fronts opened fully in the daytime but were completely shuttered at night. Artisans frequently practiced their crafts within their homes or on the street directly in front of them. Streets were crowded with people throughout the day and well into the night, especially after the arrival of electricity and street lighting, and many events that might have been considered private in the European enclave— IN

Madness Free Essays

By definition, ‘madness’ correlates to one or something which is mad. The Oxford English Dictionary defines ‘mad’ as: â€Å"1. mentally deranged; insane. We will write a custom essay sample on Madness or any similar topic only for you Order Now 2. senseless; foolish. 3. angry; resentful. 4. wildly enthusiastic (about) or fond (of). 5. extremely excited or confused; frantic. 6. wildly exuberant. 7. temporarily overpowered by violent reactions, emotions, etc.†[1] The word ‘mad’ has come to mean something as frivolous as over-excitement, or enthusiasm, to something as serious as a question of sanity. In today’s culture and society, madness has even been used as the moniker of a zany ska-pop band, and it is used in reference to a neurodegenerative disease in bovine – or Mad Cow Disease, but which came first: the emotion, or the level of sanity? When did it become readily acceptable that madness was not only a state of mind, but also a quantifier for enthusiasm? In order to understand the root of the term ‘madness’, we need to go back to its roots.   The word ‘mad’, according to dictionaries, is from before 900 A.D. and derives from Middle English vernacular for ‘madden’, and Old English ‘gemÇ £dan’, or to make mad; akin to mad, foolish.[2]   Even within the mid-centuries, the term signified a sense of foolhardy action, or senselessness. Perhaps it is this basis, and association with profound behavior which led the word to become synonymous with mental disorders. Literature often alludes to the cultural influences of an era. Many poets through the centuries have suggested that inspiration comes to them; that their works are often not their own, but those of a muse. According to Tracy K. Smith, one such poet, Federico Garcà ­a Lorca, believes that it is to the ‘duende’ which inspiration comes: â€Å"Unlike the Muse or Angel, which exist beyond or above the poet, the duende sleeps deep within the poet, and asks to be awakened and wrestled, often at great cost.†[3] This illusionary ‘demon’ is often how madness and mental disorders were diagnosed. In the early Middle Ages, possession and demonic pranksters were often considered the reason for madness, or early cases of schizophrenia. We have come along way, though, in learning and discovered that mental disorders may lead one into madness, but they are not caused by anger or emotion. The substitution of definition for ‘madness’ had become a readily acceptable practice by the 1300s; an era also known for the bubonic plague. Many medical doctors had come alongside playwrights and poets in the use of the term. Mental health asylums had become wide-spread institutions across Europe. This isn’t to say they didn’t exist prior, but in correlation to the use of language, it plays a strong significance that mental health and ‘going mad’ would be considered synonyms at this time. It is perhaps unsurprising that Dante’s Divine Comedy speaks of madness in similar ‘medical’ terms in Canto XXX: When vanish’d the two furious shades, on whom Mine eye was held, I turn’d it back to view The other cursed spirits[4] In this Canto, Dante witnesses ‘insanity’ as the punishment of those who chose to deceive throughout history and myth. Language is constantly changing and developing as the society which uses it continues to evolve and change. In this millennium, we have readily accepted the use of ‘madness’ to refer to foolish, excitable enthusiasm; as well as temporary insanity or related to anger. Originally, perhaps it is to be considered this was not always the case, with the term referring more to a senseless activity, or akin to a jester’s antics. In time, physical attributes of certain mental disorders have leaned the word towards references of questionable sanity. Coupled with the use for anger, it has developed into today’s known definition. BIBLIOGRAPHY _. Oxford English Dictionary Oxford UP., Standard Edition, 2000.    _. mad. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/mad (accessed: September 15, 2007).    Alighieri, D., Canto XXX, The Divine Comedy. The Harvard Classics.   1909–14.   (available: http://www.bartleby.com/20/130.html )    Smith, Tracy, K., Survival in Two Worlds at Once: Federico Garcia Lorca and Duende The Academy of American Poets, 2007. (available at: http://www.poets.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/5898 ) [1] Oxford English Dictionary, p.793-794 [2] mad. Dictionary.com. Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1). Random House, Inc. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/mad (accessed: September 15, 2007). [3] The Spanish poet, Federico Garcà ­a Lorca, named the keeper of that space the duende—daemon (Tracy Smith, 2007). [4] Canto XXX, lines 47-49. How to cite Madness, Essay examples

Several Beautiful Sights in North Sumatra Essay Example For Students

Several Beautiful Sights in North Sumatra Essay I believe that every country has its own unique and beautiful sights for people to visit. For example, in my country, Indonesia has many popular destinations for visitors. For decades, tourism in my country has become an important sector in foreign exchange earner. A lot of significant progresses have been made to meet the demand in tourism sector. One of the most popular areas that provide visitors with the beautiful sights is North Sumatra. North Sumatra is one of the biggest provinces at Indonesia with many attractive and cultural spots for visitors. The first example is Medan, the place where I used to spend my childhood, is the capital city of North Sumatra. With its trading centers and important harbor, Medan also has developed into a metropolitan city with large populations. One of the most historical places is Mesjid Agung Grand mosque. It used to be a place of worship owned by the inheritance of Sultanate of Deli. Founded in 1960 by Sultan Maimun, this mosque has become the biggest and the most beautiful mosque at North Sumatra. Two hundreds meters from Grand mosque, there is Maimun palace which can be said as the combination of Islamic tradition and European culture. The architect of this Palace was an Italian and completed in 1888. Furthermore, this palace was used by Sultan Deli for coronation, custom ceremonies, ancient weapons, family pictures and furniture storages. Another example is Lake Toba. Lake Toba is the biggest lake in all of Southeast Asia. With the altitude of 800 meters, 100 kilometers length and 30 kilometers width, Lake Toba is a popular tourist resort. The lake is situated in the caldera of the huge Toba volcano which erupted 75,000 years ago. Prapat is the main town on Lake Toba which is mostly spoiled by tourism. Recreational activities such as swimming, motor boating, water skiing, cycling, canoeing and fishing are popular activities around that area. Either the Batak Toba or Batak Simalungun people live in that region. The climate there is cool and dry. Therefore, this location is a perfect place to relax. Batik clothes are also well known souvenirs in this place. Prapat can be reached in 4 hours by bus from Medan. North side of Lake Toba located Tongging. Tongging is a place to see a waterfall surrounded by calm beautiful sights. The 360 feet si piso-piso waterfall is visible from a gazebo from the top of the hill. If you want to look closely to the waterfall, you can go down to the hill by a path steps, stairs and ladder leads down. It almost takes half an hour to reach the bottom of the waterfall. However, near the bottom of the waterfall, it is slippery and very wet, so you must be very careful. Yet the blue water looks pure and swift. With so many places of interests in North Sumatra such as Medan, Lake Toba, si piso-piso waterfall and many more, Im sure that these can be the beautiful places where the tourists can enjoy the force of nature that bring a powerful effects. Indeed, maybe everyone should pick Indonesia as an enjoyable trip to visit.

British Parliament Short Summary Essays - Legislatures,

British Parliament: Short Summary The British parliament consists of the Queen and two chambers, the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The functions of the parliament are to pass laws, to provide taxes and to control the actions of the government. The Queen still plays a role, but only a formal one. In law, she is the head of the executive, a part of the legislative and the head of the judiciary. The house of commons The members of the house of commons are elected directly by general majority in geographically defined parliamentary constituencies.The minimum age for franchise is 18 since 1969. At present, the house of commons is consisting of 659 MPs which are distributed on the base of the number of inhabitants (around 60.000 in each constituency in the United Kingdom) and the total number of MPs which is fixed only by the house of commons itself. The parliament has a quorum when 40 MPs are present. The legislative period lasts 5 years by law in case of special national crisis, for example war, there can be exceptional decisions to break up the period earlier or lengthen it. All of the members of the house of commons can be elected again. It is not possible for any member of the house of lords, certain clericals, employees of the government, peace lawyers or officers charged with realization of elections to be candidate for the house of commons. Theoretically every member of parliament can initialize bills of law, practically most of the bills are initalized by the ministers in charge.The bills passed by parliament are mostly rather general they get passed more detailed either through royal prescriptions(decrets) or are prepared by the ministries in charge and then proclaimed by the crown. The cabinet appears along the pinciple of collective responsibility as a unit. If the parliament votes against an important legislative intiative or puts up a vote of no confidence, the consequence is usually the resignation of the whole cabinet and new elections. The prime minister can also dismiss single ministers. This guarantees the prime ministers power as regards the ministers. Ministers of the cabinet have the possibility to resign from their position without giving up their membership in parliament. House of lords The house of lords consists of the clerical and the secular lords. The secular lords are hereditary peers, peers appointed for life who are especially in charge of some tasks in the field of justice and the lords of Appeal or Law Lords, honorous jurists plus some other peers who are usually appointed because of their achievements in politics or other important areas of life. The clerical lords are the archbishops of Canterbury and York, the bishops of London, Durham and Winchester plus the 21 senior bishops of the church of England. The house of lords has around 1200 members of which only one third regulary take part in the sessions. It has a quorum when three members are present. A draft bill can first be introduced to the house of lords by government. Financial bills always go first to the house of commons. If a bill is adopted by the house of commons it is led to the house of lords. There it has not to be voted on again to become law. The house of lords can?t block the passage of financial bills. Also any other bills since 1949 can?t be blocked by the house of lords in case they passed the house of commons within two following sessions. This means that the house of lords has only a put off- function. It can block the passage of a bill for one year maximum. The limited function of the house of lords makes clear that a non- elected chamber can only be in a consulting or revising function. This chamber is especially suitable for these tasks because its members are not involved in the classical obligations of party policies. Bibliography Sourses came from my head Political Issues

Modern Equality essays

Modern Equality essays Through the eyes of a modernist great emphasis is placed on the individual. The freedom and progress of the individual are two very important factors of this perspective and the rationale in which the individual goes about obtaining these factors. This rationale being one of tolerance to the individuals thought and opinions which may challenge tradition but acknowledging that it may be truth as long as it is made valid by facts obtained through the scientific method. This essay will explore the modern perspective of equality and the way in which we came to know it today. Immediately prior to the Protestant Reformation, the beginning point for most theologies of government was that the Christian citizen was obligated to submit to the civil ruler. Even moral corruption or incompetence alone were hardly sufficient reasons to revolt against the ruler. Government was viewed as established by divine providence. The early sixteenth century consensus held the following: "Government per se is divinely ordained by God in the Scriptures; bad rulers were sent by God to chastise the nation for their sins; rebellion causes more harm to innocents than to the guilty." (1)William Tyndale stated: "God hath made the king in every realm judge over all, and over him there is no judge. He that judgeth the king judgeth God, and he that layeth hand on the king layeth hand on God . . . If the subjects sin, they must be brought to the king's judgement. If the king sin, he must be reserved unto the judgement, wrath and vengeance of God." (2) The Reformation created a confessional landscape in which a ruler of one faith often confronted a sizeable number of his subjects who espoused another faith. At a time when toleration was seldom thought of and almost never practiced, such monarchs would typically try to impose a uniformity of belief, giving nonconformists a painful choice between conscience and crown. Medieval sources contained precedents for rebelli...

Ethical Responsibility in Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ethical Responsibility in Technology - Essay Example The agent is required to act in the best interests of the principal while performing what is required of him. But in most instances, the principal is unable measure the behavior of the agent and control the outcome of the contract, which puts him at a disadvantage vis--vis the agent. (Eisenhardt, 1989). Problems arise when there exists a conflict between the interests of the principal and the agent, which is the case in most contractual relationships. In general terms fiduciary duty is the obligation of a person to act in the best interests of another. In case of a principal and agent, it is the fiduciary duty of the agent to act in the best interests of the principal. This duty includes due diligence and due care by the agent in performing his services for the principal. "A fiduciary duty is an obligation to act in the best interest of another party." (Breach of Fiduciary Duty Law and Legal Definition, 2007). It has been stated the relationship between an agent and principal and the fiduciary duties of an agent. The principals in this instance are the future customers of Vista software who bought 'vista compatible' machines on the promise of Microsoft.

California Proposition 32 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

California Proposition 32 - Essay Example Against: From the votes cast on the 8th of November 2012, we understand that a lot of people were opposed to the enactment of the proposition 32. Some of those against the proposition include league of Women voters in California, rights groups and politicians. They argue that Proposition 32 will lead to the exemption of big businesses based in Wall Street and therefore this will not contribute to equal political reforms (Castro 2012). Some argue that it tends to shield PACs have no restrictions in raising funds for their political motives and therefore it would be unfair to prevent unions and other interest groups from raising funds. Beneficiaries: In case Proposition 32 had passed, the major beneficiaries would have been business people who would have relied on the law for the purposes of controlling their employees. Since the power of unions would have been diminished in the process of influencing political decisions (Laffer 109). It is not only the unions that would have been disa dvantaged but also interest groups who represent a bulk of workers and voters. This is because rich people who have the power of influencing politics through the use of super PACs and other means. Since the proposition failed, it is these business people and other interest groups that will feel the impact since they will still have to contend with unions and special interest groups in politics. Gains: The unions and special interest groups will the groups that were the winners of the defeat of Proposition 32.... Some argue that it tends to shield PACs have no restrictions in raising funds for their political motives and therefore it would be unfair to prevent unions and other interest groups from raising funds. Beneficiaries: In case proposition 32 had passed, the major beneficiaries would have been business people who would have relied on the law for the purposes of controlling their employees. Since, the power of unions would have been diminished in the process of influencing political decisions (Laffer 109). It is not only the unions that would have been disadvantaged but also interest groups who represent a bulk of workers and voters. This is because rich people who have power of influencing politics through use of super PACs and other means (Resmovits 2012). Since the proposition failed, it is these business people and other interest groups that will feel the impact since they will still have to contend with unions and special interest groups in politics. Gains: The unions and special i nterest groups will the groups that were the winners of the defeat of proposition 32. This is because they still showed all other groups that they are in control of the politics in California. Workers will benefit from the defeat of the proposition since employers will not have control over minimum wages and other issues. The main gainers will be the workers, unions, special interest groups and some politicians such as Democrats who have the support of the unions (Castro 2012). As at 3rd some $ 60.5 million had been pumped into the support for proposition 32 while another $ 73.3 million had been used to oppose the proposition. Loopholes: There

MIH514 - Cross-Cultural Perspectives Module 3 - Case Essay - 1

MIH514 - Cross-Cultural Perspectives Module 3 - Case - Essay Example the arrests made by the law enforcers and should one look at the actual picture, arrests are not indicators that the people arrested are the actual offenders (The Sentencing Project 2008). Moreover, based on the study, African Americans and Latinos are most likely incarcerated and in many instances receive longer sentence compared with their white counterparts. Statistics even show that African-Americans are often stopped and searched for contraband compared to their white counterparts. These are clear manifestations of racial disparity and clearly are not helping the society at large to deal with the real crime problems. Decision making bodies in the criminal justice system should make it a point that there should be no racial prejudice when dealing with criminal offenders, but instead the bail system results in higher rates of minorities being jailed before trial compared with whites in the same scenario. Minorities are also less likely to receive fair trial because of their â€Å"reduced access to defense counsel and community resources and treatment options† (The Sentencing Project 2008). Racial disparities can be seen in the following examples: The widely discussed phenomenon â€Å"driving while black†. Study reveals that whites are less likely to be stopped and searched for contraband by police while the minorities are often being stopped and questioned (The Sentencing Project 2008). While racial disparity is an issue in the criminal justice system, mental health services in the system is equally an important matter. The Council of State Governments Justice Center in a report says that 16.9% of adults in a sample of local jails are suffering from serious mental illness. The record shows that 14% of serious mental illnesses are found in men and 31% are found in women. According still to this report, if these rates were applied to 13 million jail admissions reported only in 2007, this would mean that every year there are 2 million bookings of a person who

Critical Enquiry Reflection Sheet Social Work Essay

Critical Enquiry Reflection Sheet Social Work Essay The moment of learning that has grabbed my attention in this supervision session is that I need to research and identify my practice framework when working bi-culturally with tangata whenua and cross-culturally. During my sixth supervision session my supervisor assessed me using the second direct practice observation relating to my second learning outcometo demonstrate competency when working with young people cross-culturally. This assessment led to discussions around my practice cross-culturally as I have been closely working with young people and their families who are of a different culture from my own. Also in my practice at the alterative education centre where I am placed two days a week I am the only pakeha person there. My supervisor stated in the assessment that Working in the school setting as the only female and pakeha person, has enabled her to identify the differences in culture but also helped her to work cross-culturally with other staff and clients. Family visitation has also helped her to identify areas that need more training in. When my supervisor asked me to identify how I work bi-culturally with tangata whenua and cross-culturally with clients I was unable to articulate easily how I practice in this setting. My response was that in the alternative education setting because I am the only pakeha person there, I work biculturally and cross-culturally: By respecting the Maori culture of the centre Removing my shoes when I enter I have had to learn the words in order to participate in the morning waiata and karakia I eat my lunch with the young men and the other tutors each day as sharing food together is part of the Maori culture Following on from this I have stated that during home visits with clients and their families I respect the different cultures; by removing my shoes and accepting food and beverages from cultures where the sharing of food is important. These responses were very vague and did not give a clear answer as to how I practice bi-culturally and cross-culturally. I am aware that I have been trained at university to practice from a bi-cultural and multi-cultural perspective but I have found it hard to articulate how I do this. As my supervisor has noted I have identified through this supervision session that I need to critically reflect on my practice cross-culturally and identify the areas that I need more training in order to become a competent bi-cultural and cross-cultural practitioner. For the benefit of cross-cultural practice and working with tangata whenua I as a social worker need to recognise that: As a professional helper, one can feel uneasy when challenged by striking difference is the first step towards self-reflection. This attitude has a better chance of leading to genuine accommodation of the client than pretending to be politically correct. The creation of collegial support structures and the cultivation of a climate of trust and open sharing within the service setting might encourage this attitude, to be affective in cross-cultural practice (Tsang George, 1998, p.87). Looking backward The assumptions and biases that are present in this moment of learning is my own cultural awareness; In Tatum (2000) she discuses the concept of identity and what it means for the individual and how the roles of the dominant over the subordinate can influence a persons view of themselves: This looking glass self is not a flat one-dimensional reflection, but multidimensional. How ones identity is experienced will be mediated by dimensions of one self: male or female; young or old, wealthy or poor, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or heterosexual; able-bodied or with disabilities: Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, or atheistà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Tatum, 2000). The role and the devaluation associated with it will differ in relation to the socio-cultural context that the subordinate person/s and the dominant groups are part of (Wolfensberger, 1972, as cited in (Wills, 2008b). Discourses are systemic ways of talking, discussing something of significance. They are the consequence of a combination of social, political even economic factors and often have voices of authority. Discourses are often informed by beliefs, ideas and understandings that are implicit; taken for grantedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦even ideologicalà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Some forms of discourse are legitimated and validated but still one cannot be confident, and assume that such discourses have become established as a result of well-rationalised, carefully researched, developed and rigorous argument/debate (Wills, 2008a). Looking inward Looking outward Looking forward I identify to the families that although I am from a different culture to them I have been university trained to work cross-culturally and I am happy to enter into discussions around what this means for our social work relation Question construction 300 Literature300 In defining competence one must also consider the meaning of culture. Essentially, culture is understood to relate to some shared elements which connect people in a common way of experiencing and seeing the world. These perceptions of the world guide day-to-day living, influence how decisions are made and by whom, and determine what is perceived to be appropriate and inappropriate behaviour within any given context (Connolly, Crichton-Hill Ward, 2005 p.17, as cited in SWRB, 2007, p.5) To work with Maori clients the social worker must competently understand what Te Ao Maori means, the same goes with working with other cultural and ethnic groups. Using Tsang and Georges conceptual framework of attitude knowledge and skills the SWRB created its competence standards of practice. To understand what competent practice for Maori and other cultural and ethnic groups means for social workers in New Zealand I will be critically discussing in this essay; what the ANZASWs standards of practice are that inform competence and what it means for social work practice in New Zealand, I will identify and describe the constituent elements of Te Ao Maori the Maori world view, critically examine Tsang and Georges conceptual framework and apply their framework to an aspect of Te Ao Maori in a practice setting. Members of the ANZASW are accountable to the association and expected to abide by their policies and procedures, competent social work practice being one of them, the following ten standards for social work practice in Aotearoa New Zealand were set and ratified by the National Executive of NZASW (now ANZASW) in June 1990: The social worker establishes an appropriate and purposeful working relationship with clients taking into account individual differences and the cultural and social context of the clients situation. The social worker acts to secure the clients participation in the whole process of the working relationship with them. The social workers practice assists clients to gain control over her/his own circumstances. The social worker has knowledge about social work methods, social policy, social services, resources and opportunities. In working with clients, the social worker is aware of and uses her/his own personal attributes appropriately. The social worker only works where systems of accountability are in place in respect of his/her agency, clients and the social work profession. The social worker constantly works to make the organisation and systems, which are part of the social work effort, responsive to the needs of those who use them. The social worker acts to ensure the clients access to the Code of Ethics and objects of the New Zealand Association of Social Workers. The social worker uses membership of the New Zealand Association of Social Workers to influence and reinforce competent social practice. The social worker uses membership of the New Zealand Association of Social Workers to influence and reinforce competent practice (NZASW, 1993). To illustrate how these standards for practice work in professional social work practice I will select one standard and show how two aspects of the standard apply. For standard four: the social worker has knowledge about social work methods, social policy and social services, this standard can be shown in practice with how Child, Youth and Family services work within a bicultural framework and the Treaty of Waitangi: Child, Youth and Family acknowledges its duties and obligations to the tangata whenua as a Crown partner to New Zealands founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi. We are committed to ensuring that services we deliver and purchase are fully responsive to the needs and aspirations of Maori, and that our actions are consistent with the Principles for Crown Action on the Treaty of Waitangi. Our commitment is reflected in a key result area improved outcomes for Maori, the alliances and partnerships we have built and continue to foster with iwi and Maori social services groups and communities, our human resource policies, and in our work programme (especially the development and implementation of a strategy for improving outcomes for Maori children, young people and their families) (CYF, 2008). In relation to the social policy part of this standard the CYFs social workers are aware of the legislations of Aotearoa New Zealand and how other aspects of the law: Child, Youth and Familys statutory role is defined by the following legislation: The Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 The Adoption Act 1955 The Adult Adoption Information Act 1985 The Adoption (Inter-country) Act 1997(CYF, 2008). Child, Youth and Family services are an excellent example of how an agency has set guidelines and policies around the standards set out by the SWRB and ANZASW to implement competent practice by their social workers. In the next part of this essay I will identify and describe the constituent elements of Te Ao Maori the Maori world view. To understand the Maori world view we must examine what are the Maori behaviour and conduct in social relationships or korero tawhito are; then what the Maori social structures of whanau, hapu, iwi mean and what the three classes of Maori society are, and what mana and tapu mean for Maori people who are the tangata whenua of Aotearoa. Korero tawhito are they ways in which Maori behave and conduct themselves in social relationships: Korero tawhito reflected the thought concepts, philosophies, ideals, norms and underlying values of Maori societyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ The values represent ideals, which were not necessarily achievable but something to aspire to (Ministry of Justice, 2001, p.1). These underlying values of Maori society are the ways in which Maori people socially interact with each other. The next step in understanding what the Maori world view is, is to understand Maori social structures: The Maori social structure was based on decent, seniority and the kinship groupings. Maori recognised four kin groups: Whanau the basic unit of Maori society into which an individual was born and socialised. Hapu the basic political init within Maori society, concerned with ordinary social and economic affairs and making basic day-to-day decisions. Iwi the largest independent, politico-economic unit in Maori society. An iwi would be identified by its territorial boundaries, which were of great social, cultural and economic importance (Ministry of Justice, 2001, p.2). The kin group a person belongs to affects their world view because it influences their place within society. The fundamental concepts of mana and tapu are those which govern the framework of Maori society: Mana was inherited at birth, and the more senior the descent of a person, the greater the mana. Tapu invariably accompanied mana. The more prestigious the event, person or object, the more it was surrounded by the protection of tapu. The complex notions of mana and tapu reflect the ideals and values of social control and responsibility. The analysis of mana endeavours to identify the role of mana in relation to responsibility, leadership and birthright. The examination of tapu illustrated how tapu operated and affected the everyday lives of Maori (Ministry of Justice, 2001, p.6). In examining the elements of Te Ao Maori I have examine the different concepts of Maori behaviour and conduct korero tawhito, the Maori social structures of kin and class and what mana and tapu mean. Theory 300 CRITERION FOR CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE THEORY/MODEL OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE Identifies and is based upon beliefs and values of Pacific Islands culture. Explains problems and concerns in a manner that is relevant to Pacific Islands understanding. Uses Pacific Islands helping traditions and practices. Incorporates a Pacific Islands understanding to change the process. Can differentiate aspects of the behaviour which are associated with Pacific Islands cultural patterns from those resultant in dominant palagi cultural interpretations. Avoids cultural pathological stereotyping. Encompass macro and micro levels of explanations and interventions. Incorporates the experiences of the community and individuals in New Zealand Society. Can guide the selection of appropriate knowledge and practice skills from other cultures. (Adapted from Meemeduma, P. (1994). Cross cultural social work: New models for new practice, Advances in social work welfare education, Montash University.) Ethics 300 Skills 300 The Social Work Registration Board of Aotearoa New Zealand released in 2007 a policy statement in regard to the competence of registered social workers to practise social work with Maori and different ethnic and cultural groups in New Zealand. The release of this document was to set the levels of competency that are needed for social workers to work effectively in a positive way to empower those who are disadvantaged by society.   As Mason Durie comments, cultural competence about the acquiring of skills to achieve a better understanding of members of other cultures (SWRB, 2007, p.5). To be competent when working with other cultures one must understand the differences and similarities between other cultures and know what is culturally appropriate and inappropriate; the social worker needs to respect the clients culture and use recourses available to them to effectively work with the client to achieve the best possible outcome Bicultural code of Ethics In the next part of this essay I will critically examine Tsang and Georges (1998) Integrated Conceptual Framework for Cross-cultural Practice of attitude, knowledge and skills. I will do this by describing the three elements and examining these elements by assessing their significance and importance in social work practice with mana whenua. To understand what the significance and importance of Tsang and Georges conceptual framework in relation to mana whenua we must first examine what mana whenua are: Mana whenua(noun):territorial rights, power from the land power associated with possession and occupation of tribal land. The tribes history and legends are based in the lands they have occupied over generations and the land provides the sustenance for the people and to provide hospitality for guests (Maori Dictionary, 2008). Now we know what mana whenua means the next apart is to describe the three elements of the framework: Attitude Commitment to justice and equity Valuing difference Other-directed: Openness to cultural difference Self directed: Critical self-reflection Knowledge Specific cultural content Systemic context of culture Acculturation and internalized culture Dynamics of cross-cultural communication and understanding Skills Management of own emotional response Professional intervention within institutional contexts Communication, engagement, and relationship skills Specific change strategies (Tsang and George, 1998, p.84). The concept of attitude relates to the social workers own behaviour and their use of self as a tool when working with clients, the concept of knowledge relates to the knowledge theories behind cross-cultural practice and knowledge learnt from a practitioners own experiences. The concept of skills relates to the practical aspect of working with clients. To use the element of attitude when working with mana whenua, one needs to be aware of their own limitations, lack of knowledge and understanding of other cultures: This awareness has both self-directed and other-directed implications. The other-directed expression of this awareness is an openness to cultural difference and a readiness to learn form a client. Such openness is based on acknowledgement and positive regard for the cultural differences that exist between the client and the practitioner, respect for client cultures, and readiness to accommodate alternative world views or ways of life. The self-directed expression of this awareness is a readiness to engage in self-reflection, including the examination of possible cultural biases, assumptions, values, and ones emotional experience and comfort level when challenged with difference (Tsang and George, 1998, p.84). For a social worker to be aware of their own limitations and lack of knowledge is the first step in establishing a working relationship with mana whenua, their own ability to acknowledge the differences and similarities between their own culture and their clients culture is a huge component of their attitude when working with their clients. Supervision is needed in this context for the social worker to be able to discuss with others their own reflections and feelings associated when working cross-culturally, for personal and professional growth. Knowledge is the next element in which the cross-cultural practice framework discusses the four elements of knowledge: We can identify four areas of cross-cultural knowledge. First is the knowledge of specific cultural content as captured by the cultural literacy model. In agreement with Dyche and Zayas (1995), it is probably not realistic to expect cros0cultural practitioners to be knowledgeable in a large number of cultural systems. It may be more practical for practitioners to focus on the other three kinds of knowledge: the systemic context of culture, acculturation and internalized culture, and the dynamics of cross-cultural communication and understanding. Consistent with an ecological perspective adopted by many social workers, cross-cultural clinical practice is understood within the broader systemic context of current structural inequalities, racial politics, histories of colonization, slavery, and other forms of racial oppression (Tsang and George, 1998, p.85). For a worker to work effectively cross-culturally they must understand and have knowledge of other cultures, historically, ethnically, their value and belief systems, their customs and day-to-day living. To have a comprehensive understanding of a clients total living and life experience a practitioner must have an appreciation of the effects of their socio-political systems. In this context in New Zealand it would be effective for social workers working with mana whenua to have knowledge of the Treaty of Waitangi and what it means for Maori people and the political aspects that go with it. The final element of Skills in Tsang and Georges model related to the specific skills a social worker needs when working biculturally with the mana whenua and cross-culturally: Social work skills are specific courses of action taken by practitioner to achieve positive changes needed by their clients à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Appropriate attitude and knowledge in cross-cultural practice, therefore, must be translated into specific professional behaviour which addresses practitioner, client, institutional and contextual realities. A variety of skills have been recommended by authors in cross-cultural practice, covering professional behaviour within institutional contexts; communication skills, specific interviewing skills such as ethnographic interview, relationship-building skills, and change strategies (Tsang and George, 1998, p.85-86). Practice skills can not be effective without the social worker having a sound understanding of knowledge and the appropriate attitude when working with mana whenua. Skills are the practical component on Tsang and Georges model, and when working with mana whenua the practitioner must use the appropriate skills from their knowledge base for their work to be effective. Their interactions with their clients are an important part of their role as a social worker. Mana whenua need social workers with the specialist cross-cultural skills. In this part of the essay I have examined Tsang and Georges model of attitude, knowledge and skills by describing the three elements and examining the elements by assessing their significance and importance in social work practice with mana whenua and other cultures. Evidence 300

Changing Career Patterns :: Jobs Work Essays

Changing Career Patterns This project has been funded at least in part with Federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education under Contract No. ED-99-CO-0013. The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Education nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Digests may be freely reproduced and are available at http://ericacve.org/fulltext.as Choi Joon Seo, a 31-year-old Korean who worked as regional marketing manager for Nike in Hong Kong, resigned his job so he could pursue his dream of building his own sports marketing company. (Jung et al. 2000) Heidi Miller of Citigroup and Mary Cirillo of Deutsche Bank, two of the most senior women in U.S. banking, resigned their jobs to look for new career challenges in e-commerce. (Currie 2000) Alan Goldstein, in response to his growing interest in computer technology, resigned from his career as trauma surgeon at Kings County Hospital in New York, and, at age 49, formed his own software company. (Mottl 1999) Glenn Gainley, after working his way to vice president in charge of business units at Symbios, Inc., quit his job at age 40 and returned to school to pursue a teaching career. (Black 1999) These examples of career changes reflect a common trend—increased job mobility. The linear career path that once kept people working in the same job, often for the same company, is not the standard career route for today's workers. Today, many workers are pursuing varied career paths that reflect sequential career changes. This set of ongoing changes in career plans, direction, and employers portrays the lifetime progression of work as a composite of experiences. This Digest explores how changing technologies and global competitiveness have led to redefinition of interests, abilities, and work options that influence career development. Influences on Career Mobility Job mobility no longer carries the stigma once associated with job change, although it can be emotionally stressful. Corporate upheavals of the early 1990s and low unemployment rates during the last part of the decade have caused changes in job search and hiring practices. Companies, especially those in technology fields that are in dire need of qualified, skilled, and experienced employees, are driven to recruit workers away from their current employers. Workers, who see job mobility as a way to find work that is appealing, challenging, and offers growth potential, are viewing career change as a way to progress through the uncertainties of the workplace.