Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Home Depot Business Proposal Essay

Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank founded Home Depot Corp in 1978 (The Home Depot, 2013). The business created strategic product analysis providing an assortment of items to consumers. From the beginning, workers have been able to deliver superior customer satisfaction in the business, helping consumers with jobs such as handling power tools, changing out parts on appliances, laying tile, etc. The Home Depot employees all underwent arduous training to familiarize each employee with products. In addition, the business began hosting workshops to teach consumers on how to do things themselves. Home Depot progressed into a globally known hardware retailer that has an inventory consisting of up to 40,000 various types of constructing and home improvement materials, supplies, outdoor, lawn and garden equipment, appliances, and more than 250,000 other items that can be acquired through special order online or in store (The Home Depot, 2013). Home Depot offers extensive dedication to developing every source in the creating an operational competitive advantage in addition to managing logistics surrounded by the supply chain. An impenetrable basis surrounded by the symbol of home improvement creates the opportunities impact and generates properties on obtaining policies, strategies and measures, which are recognized in Home Depot’s procurement technique. Variables Depending on the number of sellers in any one industry, the differentiation of products and the barriers to entry, a market structure could be an oligopoly, monopoly, perfect competition, or a monopolistic competition. The price elasticity of demand ranges from relatively low in a monopolistic market to very high in a perfectly competitive market. The higher the price elasticity of demand, the more a modification in cost will affect demand for product. The Home Depot asserts various domestic and international customers, ranking as the fourth leading home improvement merchant in the U.S. and fifth biggest in the world. Home Depot customers range from in-house associates to external novice homeowners to industrious commercial contractors. The Home Depot works closely with suppliers to ensure customer satisfaction globally, and domestically. The program is aimed to backup and heighten the service process for The Home Depot stores, deliver efficiencies to our Suppliers, enhance accountability, efficiency and effectiveness, ensuring a superior shopping experience to The Home Depot customers (The Home Depot, 2013). The business also offers a well-designed Internet site that emphasizes supplier collaboration. The New Supplier Toolbox designs create successful partnerships without complicated rerouting and puzzling forms. The material of Home Depot customers differ from needing insecticides to attaining enough drywall supplied to complete the inside of an entire home. The Home Depot also offers an innovative easy to use Internet site that highlights supplier teamwork. Even pricing and SKU number changes have clear procedures to follow ensuring The Home Depot and its partners interconnect. Looking up products is as easy as ever by simply entering the SKU number and selecting from a pictured list of products matching that numbe r. Revenue and Profit Maximization Understanding what the customer perceives as value is important. A company like Home Depot needs to review its services to maintain and develop a customer base. Adjustments in trends in the market because of economic factors or to the point that they current established practice of services does not meet the customer’s demands. The domestic outlook of expectations on procurement policies and procedures explains Home Depots Annual report. At one time, Home Depot set up design centers for kitchens and baths. These design centers are set as a service to the customer who would have embed Home Depot products into the designs of each customer’s home. Home Depot has altered its procurement strategies and purchasing measures. The business set up design examples of kitchen and bathroom designs. These design examples are set as a design service and example to the consumers who install Home Depot merchandise in the plans of his or her home remodel, renovation, or design. This strategy did not increase the production at each  store, as many consumers would take ideas from the example designs completed at the Home Depot and acquire similar merchandise from other stores like the Internet or other home improvement retailers. The procurement policy has changed to include higher product lines like Thomasville furniture and RIDGID tools known high-end items in the furniture and professional grade tools industry. In addition, Home Depot has collaborated with Martha Stewart Living offering a select brand of home improvement merchandise in certain types like paint, outdoor living, and home organization merchandise from Martha Stewart Living (Home Depot, 2013). By modifying strategies from internal industries such as example design stations that drive merchandise, the emphasis should be retaining the consumer through purchasing Home Depot’s products and guaranteeing that products remain available. Home Depot has changed their strategy and policy of purchasing to reflect the changes in the domestic market. Given is an outcome to raise demand for a service, fluctuating the demand curve to the right. By adding features to the provision or constructing it quicker or more dependable, Home Depot can lessen production outlays, shifting the supply curve to the right. Marginal Factors It is important to understand what patterns arise from the local markets when operating from a global perspective. Sourcing local markets is a serious link a company like Home Depot can establish. Setting a strategy for domestic sourcing creates a rooted market existence. From a global outlook, Home Depot preserves a global sourcing merchandise program. Home Depot maintains a global tracking merchandise database to source superior products straight from manufacturers all over the world (The Home Depot, 2013). Their merchant team recognizes and buys high demand advanced products directly for its various store locations. Moreover, Home Depot has sourcing headquarters located in China, India, Italy, Mexico, and Canada (The Home Depot, 2013). Revenue is maximized when Marginal Revenue equals Marginal Cost. To use it, a business needs to know how much it costs to produce one more unit of a service. By setting this global sourcing strategy, the anticipation for Home Depot is that it will understand what sells in a domestic market and sourcing from that specific area. Local connections and pricing will support Home Depot’s objective of global increase since the consumer base will  recognize local merchandise lines and supplies. A local area network can understand specific needs of that area. For example if a country like India has monsoon rains and winds the local office in India can understand the trends and seasons. Home Depot has developed these regional offices to understand the flow of goods to support its local customer base (The Home Depot, 2013). Moreover, having recognition in the local area can also respond to difficulties for that area. Pricing Home Depot’s procurement process summaries the business’s supplier facts inside the reference manual. This manual offers definite data to guarantee effective collaboration and partnerships. The ordering cycle for Home Depot’s consists of electronic data exchange needs, delivery statistics, buying order approaches, store environment settings, engineering superiority, customs compliance, and shipping restraints. Figure 1: The Home Depot Ordering Cycle Diagram Distribution statistics include product and packaging characteristics, freight requirements, and product flows (Amadeo, 2014). The Home Depot outlines distribution necessities to limit misperception and quandaries upon entrance. The data describes where product distributions should be contingent on point of foundation, creation, and final distribution. The final requirements of The Home Depot supplier reference manual include customs compliance and transportation. The Home Depot outlines how suppliers need to handle international imports or exports, from having the appropriate documentation to sufficient packaging and security. Home Depot summarizes how suppliers must handle worldwide imports or exports, from having the correct documentation to adequate packaging and security. Pricing strategies involve movement along the demand curve (Amadeo, 2014). In a marketplace with high price elasticity of demand, like a monopolistic competitive market, a small decrease in cost will have a huge influence on demand (Amadeo, 2014). Non-pricing strategies shifting the demand curve to the right include TV advertisements. This is a joint strategy in markets with low price elasticity of demand, such as oligopolies. Selecting a mixture of strategies having the greatest effect on demand in the business’s industry  may be best. Barriers and the Service Patents or lobbying for increased industry regulation, or making service expensive while entering the industry by selling a service that requires specialized tools in a workforce like Home Depot is a definite barrier entry. Money back guarantee is another option for dissatisfied service or products within product and service differentiation. Labor cost is reduced by capital. Operating Home Depot’s organization demands for the uppermost levels of merchandise excellence, modernization, obtainability, on-time delivery, security in fabrication and delivery, compliance with regulations and codes of conduct, and compassion to product reputation (The Home Depot, 2013). This is a major influence to the procurement strategy, policies, and procedures. The supply chain streamlines many global and domestic opportunities, product and service outsourcing and is a cognizant to personnel support. The selection of products, analyzing, sourcing approaches, freight and import cost, export, shipping, import details, contracts information and processes broaden potential business movement controlled by procurement decisions and influences of policies. Some enforce policies and potentially bring forth benefit, or substantial reasons for internal and external sourcing strategies to create innovative advantage in organizations procedures and decides building and buying solutions. Home Depot faces challenges to unify and coordinate our operations and supply chain from customer to supplier. Challenges involve reducing inventory levels, improving communication between trading partners and changing customer demands, reducing the time from order to arrival of a product, and reducing cost. Contractor Sales/Comparative Advantage Transactions in all Home Depot stores continues to rise. This is a strong indication that homeowners simply can invest more into maintenance and home improvement projects. Usually, contractor sales, which account for a significant percent of Home Depot’s business, continue to fall short. Competition for contractor business is aggressive. Top contenders in this market, like Lowe’s, has attuned their strategies to allow local store  managers to deliver contractor markdowns without corporate consent. Projected Outcome Expanding e-commerce services with Home Depot provides customers greater access to the products and services deepening the guarantee to improve every resource to generate an effective competitive gain. A solid foundation in the expansion to include contractor sales, web-based imaging solution software, and the Home Depot Foundation community outreach program would benefit the company immensely. Home Depot understands their greatest competitive advantage originates within the organization through the Home Depot associates. By removing department silos and creating cross-functional areas within the organization the associates at Home Depot work together to improving the business through creative innovative ways to improve customer service. Recommendations Home Depot’s supply chain value, management, vision or goals and development priorities should focus upon particular objectives in the next 2-year period. Home Depot’s strength to the projected supply chain strategy is the use of e-business and e-commerce processes that enables all information available to the supply chain. Home Depot’s weakness is within the launch of super store concepts ability to suffer postponement. Adding feature late in the process to make products and services grand from data obtained after more accurate or detailed research. Home Depot is creating a tactical decision support tool to assist in managing new projects in addition to the supply chain changes for nonprofit organizations to rebuild homes and contracts for retailed products. Home Depot’s demanding forecast is about control, improvement and deviating through customer demands not supply chain inventory management issues. Most important as technology becomes more innovative, IT strings business technology. Conclusion Home Depot’s business demands for the utmost levels of merchandise excellence, revolution, obtainability, timely shipping, protection in fabrication and delivery, compliance with rules and regulations, and understanding of brand and its reputation is a major impact to the customer service strategy and improvement to merchandise, policies, and techniques.  The supply chain modernizes many global and domestic occasions, merchandise and service outsourcing and is a familiarity to worker support. The variety of merchandise, examining, sourcing methods, merchandise and import price, distribute, delivery, import information, contracts statistics, and procedures broaden probable business measures controlled by procurement decisions and influences of policies. The affiliation with many state and federal laws restricts and offer different business treatment and regulations. Some impose policies and theoretically bring forth profit or considerable motives for internal and external sourcing strategies to generate state-of-the-art influence in organizational processes and chooses building and buying solutions. References Kimberly Amadeo. (2014). What Is the Business Cycle? Retrieved from: http://useconomy.about.com/od/glossary/g/business_cycle.htm The Home Depot. (2013). Welcome to the Home Depot. Retrieved from: https://corporate.homedepot.com/Pages/default.aspx

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

A Perspective on Water Crisis Essay

Global water crisis is one of the biggest problems that the world is facing. Freshwater resources are increasingly becoming scarce today and probably for the next decades. Less than one-half of 1% of all the water on the planet comprises the available fresh and clean water (Maude). Humans already used more than half of the world’s clean fresh water and by the year 2025 the consumption of freshwater will increase to three-quarters. Global water consumption becomes double every 20 years and if this trend continues, the supply of freshwater will not be enough for the demand of the world’s population by 2025. World Bank and World Heath Organization noted that there are about 2 billion people have no access to clean and safe water and about 1 billion people have no enough clean water to meet their daily water requirements. Depleted water resources are attributed to the intensive urbanization, deforestation, water diversion, industrial farming and population growth. As the world population increases, the consumption of accessible freshwater may grow six-fold (Maude). As a result of water crisis, lots of people suffer and die from water and sanitation related diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, and hepatitis. Unfortunately, most of the poorest countries in the globe are the ones who are experiencing water shortage. Uganda is located at the Sub-Saharan Africa and is among the poorest countries around the globe. The country relies solely on agricultural industry however, less than half of the arable land is subject for cultivation. Large part of the land area (more or less 82%) of the country is arable, however more than 67% of the country has poor ferralitic soil which has nearly lost its mineral content due to prolonged weathering. Thus, proper soil management is needed for the soil to regain its lost nutrients. The economy of the country has a great potential, considering the potentials of its agriculture and natural resources. There is a great possibility that Uganda will recover from difficulties, most especially from poverty. However, due to some existing problems that the country is facing, it seems to be difficult for Uganda to escape from poverty. One of the biggest problems that the country is facing today is water crisis. Water crisis definitely affect the country as a whole contributes to Uganda’s poverty and worsen her current situation (Dauda, 2003). The country of Uganda is definitely endowed with water resources. About 18% of the total surface area of the country is covered with renewable water resources including lakes, rivers and wetlands. Approximately, it can supply an individual of Uganda with 2,800 m of water in a year (Dauda, 2003). These fresh water resources are considered as the essential resource for sustaining life, preserving the environment, uphold development and alleviating poverty in the country. It has direct impact the quality of life of Ugandans and their productivity as a whole. Water is very essential to Uganda since it plays an essential role in the production of sufficient supply of food for the country as well as supplying electric power all over the country. It is the key resource of the country’s agriculture, food processing and other agro-industries which provides employment to the people of Uganda. Aside from supporting Uganda’s agriculture and industry, water also provides electric power to the country. Indeed, it is the source of hydropower which is the country’s main resource of abundant and cheap electric power. The socio-economic development of the country depends solely on the energy produced from hydropower. Inadequate power supply cannot support Uganda’s large-scale manufacturing industries and agro-industries which may lead to low economic level of the country (National Water Development Report, 2005). The major freshwater resources of Uganda include rainfall, surface or open water and groundwater. Rainfall is the most vital source of freshwater of the country. The rainfall pattern in the country greatly influences the land use potential and consequently the population distribution. The rainfall pattern of Uganda is influenced by the local topography and the presence of Lake Victoria. Rainfall in Uganda tends to increase with altitude; meanwhile, rainfall is apt to decrease with the distance from the lake. High rainfall is noted on the central and western parts of Lake Victoria and over the mountain. Another factor that determines the occurrence of rainfall is the country’s season. The most stable rain season in Uganda is from the months of March to May; meanwhile, the reported variable rainy months in Uganda is from October to December (National Water Development Report, 2005). The major freshwater resources of Uganda are in the form of lakes and rivers. These open sources are often used for the supply of hydropower in the country. The major resources of hydropower in Uganda are the Nile River and Lake Victoria. Lake Victoria supports the fisheries industry of Uganda and provide water supply to the majority of people of Uganda. Indeed, the Lake is also supporting the agriculture industry along its shoreline (National Water Development Report, 2005). However, the Lake’s potential use for the future is now in question since it is experiencing dying up which leads to lower water levels. The available water left in Lake Victoria may not be enough to sustain the required hydroelectric power generation (Xinhua News Agency). Other water bodies include Kyoga, Albert, George, Edward, Ruizi, Katonga, Kafu, Mpologoma and Aswa (National Water Development Report, 2005). Some of these lakes, most especially those on the western and central part are also drying up due to drought which threatens the cattle industry in the area. Cattles have little access to water which may lead to lower production rate and low quality of Cattles (Xinhua News Agency). In addition to drought, the quality of surface water has been deteriorating with time. In most parts of the country, surface and ground water are already polluted due to increased urbanization and population as well as human activities such as poor agricultural practices, poor sanitation practices, industrial waste discharge, and mining activities (National Water Development Report, 2005). Aquifers, which can only be generated and recharged by endogenous precipitation, are also essential resource of freshwater in Uganda. It is the major source of water in rural, semi-arid and arid areas in the country. The occurrence of groundwater is highly dependent on the geologic formation in the country. Uganda is endowed with productive aquifers water; this can be attributed to the geology of Uganda which is dominated by crystalline Basement Complex of pre-Cambrian age. More than 90% of the country is underlie by different kinds of rocks which predominantly include granites, granitoid gneisses and gneisses. Ground water resources are generally found on the underground layer of unconsolidated materials such as weathered bedrock, silt and clay. This groundwater can only be extracted through wells. The highest yielding and productive groundwater can be found in weathered-fractured bedrock which has high permeability (National Water Development Report, 2005). In general, the groundwater of Uganda is in good and sound condition. There are no traces of toxic substances that may threaten the health of the people in Uganda. Moreover, these aquifers have significant amount of minerals such as aluminum, calcium, magnesium metal cations, chloride, iron, manganese and chromium that may not cause harm to the people of Uganda. Consequently, there are few parts of the country that are found to have high amounts of these minerals and have traces of high nitrate and chromium levels in some areas. Aside from high amount of minerals, it was also reported that some parts of the country have found to be positive in Coliform bacteria. Contamination of the aquifers is attributed to deterioration of the borehole casings, leaching of sewage wastes, weathering of aquifer environment as well as poor sanitation condition in the areas around the aquifers (National Water Development Report 2005). In general, the availability and preservation of water resources in Uganda solely relies on various environmental, sociological and cultural factors. The availability of freshwater resources depends on the distribution of water bodies on the country. It is known that freshwater resources in Uganda constitute a great part of the country. However, due to its uneven distribution and seasonality, availability of water is still a big problem on most parts of the country. Ugandans find it difficult to have an easy access to fresh and clean water. Women together with their young are spending so much time and energy on walking a mile-long way just to fetch water from areas with sufficient supply of clean water. The uneven distribution of water resources in the country also influences the agro-industry in the country. Cattle raisers tend to transfer from place to place just to find safe and sufficient water for the cattles. As a result, disease spread and transfer brought by the cattles becomes prevalent on various regions of the country (Xinhua News Agency). Meanwhile, uneven distribution of groundwater greatly influenced the accessibility of Ugandans to clean water. Regions endowed with productive groundwater are indeed rich in geological characteristics (National Water Development Report 2005). The occurrence of extreme weather conditions has a great effect on the availability and safety of water on the country. Heavy rains may cause to flooding and consequently may contaminate the water resources of the some regions in the country. Contaminated water may result to more serious problems such as disease outbreaks, epidemics and even death. Contaminated water is the key reason to the high and increasing mortality rate of Ugandans especially of infants (National Water Development Report 2005). It is reported that most number of mortality occurs on infants and this can be attributed to less accessibility to clean and safe water. Meanwhile, erratic rainfall and seasonality of the occurrence of rainfall in the country resulted to desertification of arable lands. These definitely affect several industries in the country especially those that greatly depend on water (i. e. agricultural industries) (Dauda, 2003). Some of the suspected major reasons of water resources deterioration in Uganda are rapid growth population, urbanization, industrialization, relentless environmental degradation and deforestation as well as pollution. High population density greatly influenced the availability of water resources in Uganda. The population of Uganda in 2007 is approximately 30. 9 million and more than half of it is comprised of infants. The country has an average annual growth rate of 3. 4% which is one of the highest growth rates in the globe. The demand for water relatively increased while the supply decreased with high population density. And as what the country is experiencing, there is no enough clean water for all. Increased population accompanied by urbanization and industrialization resulted to increased pollution and deforestation. Most of the land bodies are converted to industries which produces toxic wastes that pollute the environment especially water bodies. This contributes to the decreased supply of water in Uganda. Depleted water supply is also attributed to poor agricultural practices in the country such as cultivation, pastoral activities, and livestock practices. Poor sanitation is also identified as a possible cause of freshwater shortage in Uganda. Some of the land owners that cultivate their own lands seem to be unaware of environmentally sustainable practices. They have poor knowledge on these methods that they do any practices which may pollute their environment. These practices accompanied by poor sanitation will indeed bring negative effect on Uganda’s environment. Poor sanitation practices are among the factors that contribute to depleted water supply and water related diseases in Uganda. Fetching and purifying water are very labor intensive, considering the distance that Ugandans walk just to obtain clean and safe water. They often share and obtain polluted water from water resources where farm animals usually dwell. However, as an everyday routine, it became arduous to the people of Uganda to fetch water from distance places and to consume so much time purifying the water that they fetched. People tend to ignore the hazard that the contaminated water may bring them; they just drink the water as ease without purifying it. As a result, development of water related diseases became prevalent in Uganda (Dauda, 2003). Another major factor that leads to water shortage in Uganda is global warming. Majority of Uganda’s water table, especially the northern and northeastern part is dry due to global warming and environmental degradation (Dauda, 2003). Global warming may also contribute to the occurrence on the extreme weather condition in the country such as El Nino and La Nina. Moreover, these parts of the country are experiencing wide fluctuations in the availability of water between wet and dry seasons as well as variations in the onset of rainfall as a result of the extreme weather conditions (National Water Development Report 2005). Prolonged drought, which leads to drying up of significant water tables of Uganda, has also threatened the food security in the country. Due to prolonged drought, production of staple foods of Ugandans such as sorghum and millet relatively decreased (EuropaWorld). Just like any other country, Uganda is rich in traditions and belief. They value their culture so much it comes to a point that their beliefs and traditions hinder the possibility of development in their country. There are existing cultural norms that are related to the water bodies in Uganda. Some of the water bodies in Uganda are believed to have special healing powers for many diseases and supernatural dwellers as well. Moreover, these water bodies have potentials for many significant uses such as hydropower resource and irrigation for agricultural industries. However, due to close cultural attachment of people of Uganda to these water resources, the government found it difficult to create potential programs that will optimize the use of the water resources in the country (National Water Development Report 2005). Aside from various problems stated previously that have great impact on freshwater availability, Uganda’s neighboring regions seem to contribute on the water crisis that it is experiencing. Majority of Uganda’s freshwater resources have existing crossing frontiers which bound the country from maximizing its use on its own water resources within its territory. Though they have legal riparian rights to have a share on the water resources, these transboundaries definitely affect the socio-economic growth of the country since water is considered to be as the key player in the development of Uganda (Encounter Uganda Well Health). For one thing, these transboundaries serve as the main competitors of Uganda from the available water resources. People of Uganda have little access to large water resources since they are restricted to come across the boundary of another country. Moreover, these crossing frontiers not only prevent Uganda from optimizing its available freshwater resources but source of food and employment as well (National Water Development Report 2005). In order to unravel the existing problems in Uganda, its government decided to make some modifications on its various sectors, most especially the water sector. Several studies and situational analyses are conducted by the water sector that leads to preparation of comprehensive strategy of water sector and investment strategies. The government has anticipated many factors and they made it possible that the strategies may still be implemented on the sector up to 2015. The government has already started implementing some of the strategies and one of these is Sector Wide Approach to Planning (SWAP). SWAP requires all stakeholders to participate in the planning and implementation of the sector’s activities while optimizing benefits for all. The strategy has provided a regular budget on the programs that are made which is relatively different to the previous programs that the sector has made (National Water Development Report 2005). Another significant program that also aimed to promote sustainable management and development of water resources of the riparian regions is the Collaborative Partnership Program. The program is focused in improving the coordination of efforts of the different stakeholders. The program is also focused on harmonizing strategies and plans that involves sustainable management and development of the shared water resources. This makes Uganda very eager to have a close relationship with its neighboring regions. Uganda became enthusiastic with regard to making joint plan, management and development of the water resources that they shared. Uganda’s aim on making collaboration with her transboundaries is for all of them to obtain fair benefits from the water resources as well as to ensure that they will get sufficient supply of clean water. Fair utilization and consumption of shared water provide a high opportunity for sustainable use of resources as well as sustainable growth and development. Moreover, Uganda will be able to support its economic and social objectives through collaborating with its cross frontiers (National Water Development Report 2005). The riparian countries including Uganda will have comparable advantages from the equitable use of shared water. While building a close relationship with the riparian countries, the potentials of the existing industries in Uganda may be developed through collaboration with her neighboring regions. Advancement in its industries may lead to economic development of the country and in turn advancement on the quality of life and well being of its whole nation. Meanwhile, there are potential conflicts identified in the implementation of collaboration program between the riparian countries. Aside from the common objective that the riparian countries agreed on making the joint collaboration, these countries also have different interests which make a potential conflict between them. They made plans and implemented projects which do not take into consideration the wide coverage of the shared water resources. They do not anticipate the possible conflicts that may arise by implanting their plans. As a result, some of their individual plans for the development of their own countries are contradicting with the plans of other countries. Plans of other countries will not be possible if other countries’ plan will be allowed. Another issue that makes the joint program complicated is the mistrust among the cross frontiers. This issue seems to be unavoidable since the riparian countries have different objectives and interest in joining the joint program. They refuse to show their own data regarding the shared water resources as well as information of their plans and strategies. Since the riparian countries have no idea of the plans and programs of other riparian countries there are instances that the individual projects implemented are the same with other countries (National Water Development Report 2005). The last issue identified is the restoration of the environment. One of the minor objectives of the joint program is to conserve the environment; however, it is found to be difficult to implement their plans and projects while not taking into consideration the possible negative effect that it may bring to their environment. The main concern here is the methods of the activities and projects as well as the way these are conducted. Countries located on the downstream of the shared water resources are threatened by the possible effect of the activities that the upstream countries are conducting. Also due to mistrust, they are not guaranteed that the upstream countries are performing the activities in a proper way. It is essential that both the upstream and downstream countries will conduct their programs and projects in such a way that these programs will not affect that conservation of environment that they are promoting in the country. Through this little start, there will be a great possibility that their countries will surpass big problems such as water crisis and most of all poverty. References Barlow, Maude. The global water crisis and the Commodification of the world’s water supply A Special Report issued by the International Forum on Globalization (IFG). Retrieved May 30, 2008, from http://www. thirdworldtraveler. com/Water/Global_Trade_BG. html Toure, Dauda. 2003. The Millennium Development Goals Progress Report for Uganda. Retrieved May30, 2008, from http://www. undg. org/archive_docs/6197-Denmark_MDG_Report. pdf 2005. National Water Development Report: Uganda. Retrieved May 30, 2008, from http://www. unesdoc. unesco. org/images/0014/001467/146760E. pdf Xinhua News Agency. 2006. Lakes in Uganda dry up due to prolonged drought. Retrieved May 29, 2008, from highbeam. com/doc database. Encounter Uganda Well Health. Retrieved May 29, 2008 from water_website database. EuropaWorld. 2003, February 21. Northern Uganda: The Forgotten Crisis. Retrieved May 29, 2008, from http://www. europaworld. org/week117/northernuganda21203. htm

Comparison of Batteries

Lead Acid Cell vs. Button Cell Lead acid cells were invented in 1859 by the French Physicist Gaston Plante, and are the oldest types of rechargeable batteries. These types of batteries typically weigh at 5kg, but can range from half a kilogram to over 30 kilograms on the consumer market. Though their chemistry means a very low energy-to-weight and energy-to-volume ratio in comparison to other modern batteries, their ability to supply high surge currents means that the cells maintain a large power-to-weight ratio.This makes them highly desirable for use in large appliances such as motor vehicles, which require the high current provided by this type of battery. In comparison, Button cells are much smaller than lead acid cells. Button cells are shaped as small, squat cylinders usually 5 to 22mm in diameter and between 1 to 6mm in height and weigh little over several grams. The voltage and current produced by these batteries are small and steady, and these properties make them very suita ble for powering small portable electronic devices such as wrist watches, pocket calculators, hearing aids, and sometimes pacemakers.These batteries are usually not rechargeable, and last a long time, though lifespan depends on chemical composition and use. Chemistry Lead acid calls use a chemical reaction in order to produce a voltage between the output terminals. The battery contains two plates, and the discharge process is driven by the conduction of electrons from the negative plate back into the cell at the positive plate. All lead acid sells use Lead Sulfate in their reactions. These chemicals were originally contained as a liquid, but a technique has now been developed in which a gel electrolyte is used, preventing leakage.Negative plate reaction: Pb(s) + HSO? 4(aq) > PbSO4(s) + H+(aq) + 2e- Positive plate reaction: PbO2(s) + HSO? 4(aq) + 3H+(aq) + 2e- > PbSO4(s) + 2H2O(l) Overall reaction: Pb(s) + PbO2(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) > 2PbSO4(s) + 2H2O(l) Button cells are single cells, and are Primary cells, being not rechargeable. Button cells have both an Anode and Cathode separated by a separator contained within a metal â€Å"can†. Common anode materials are zinc or lithium, and there are a range of cathode materials, including manganese dioxide, silver oxide, and cupric oxide.Of notable mention is the mercuric oxide button cell, which was banned due to the toxicity and environmental hazard of mercury. Reaction between silver oxide (cathode) and zinc (anode): Zn + Ag2O ZnO + 2Ag These batteries are dry batteries, and are created with the ideal of a long lifetime. As such, they rarely leak if ever, and boast a steady electricity production over a long period of time. Both Lead acid cells and button cells rely on chemical reactions for the production of their energy.However, where a lead-acid cell would typically use an anode and cathode within a liquid or gel medium, button cells use solid anode and cathodes which react with each other through a separator. T his reflects their uses; where the chemistry of a lead acid battery allows it to produce large amounts of electricity in surges as needed to start appliances such as motor vehicles, the chemistry of Button cells allows for a slow and steady release of small amounts of charge. Cost and Practicality As was reflected upon under the chemistry subtitle, the batteries have been designed, and retain their designs, to specifically fit their uses.Though the size of the lead acid batteries does not allow for the powering of small portable devices such as watches, it maintains its usefulness in larger appliances and uses such as motor vehicles, which require a large amount of electrical energy to start up, but does not require a steady flow of energy. This is reflected in the property of these batteries being able to release large surges of energy. As these are designed for long use and provide large power, the cost for these are quite high, ranging from $100 to $300 each.In comparison, the bu tton cell battery is used for very small applications such as wrist watches and hearing aids. This is reflected in their small, convenience, and ability to provide a long lasting, steady flow of energy. However, this means that they are unable to supply large amounts of energy at a time, and are therefore unfit for use in industry and larger appliances such as motor vehicles. The cost of these batteries is much cheaper than that of the large, lead acid batteries, rarely coming up to above a few dollars. Impact on SocietyBatteries have had a large impact on society since their invention. In particular, lead acid batteries were among the first to be invented. These batteries have had a major impact on society; They have allowed for the powering of motor vehicles, which have become a major component in the lives of many living in developed cities. Though an older model of battery, these batteries continue to hold significant impact on society even today. In comparison, button cells pow er small, handheld portable appliances such as watches and hearing aids.This is asignificant difference from the impact of lead acid batteries. However, both batteries have impacted the life of many in developed societies, generally making life easier, and more convenient for all. Environmental impact Lead acid batteries are extremely hazardous to the environment. Lead is a hazardous metal, and poisonous to both environments and animals, and humans are not excepted. Though the use of lead in batteries is usually very controlled, the production of it is not; of three plants in Australia, two have required strict non-residential zones of 2-3 km.This implies that though all safety precautions are being taken, there is still a danger of contamination and danger to the environment. In comparison, button cells are much safer. Though non rechargeable, their recyclability means the mining of the metals used in batteries is reduced to a minimum. However, the environmental impact of these mat erials is determined by the actual materials used. This was reflected upon in the past, when mercuric oxide batteries were banned for the toxicity and environmental damage caused by mercury. References ttp://www. powerstream. com/Size_SLA. htm http://hyperphysics. phy-astr. gsu. edu/hbase/electric/leadacid. html http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Lead%E2%80%93acid_battery#Electrochemistry http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Silver-oxide_battery http://batteryuniversity. com/learn/article/types_of_battery_cells http://science. howstuffworks. com/electric-battery-info1. htm http://electrochem. cwru. edu/encycl/art-b02-batt-nonr. htm http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Button_cell#Properties_of_different_types http://www. lead. org. au/lanv3n2/lanv3n2-5. html

Monday, July 29, 2019

Women in the family in Saudi Arabia Research Paper

Women in the family in Saudi Arabia - Research Paper Example To determine the situation of women in Saudi Arabia one has to analyze these factors first. This paper aims at understanding the role and position women are given in the Saudi society. It will examine the culturally defined position of women in the family, marriage, health, education, religion, politics and the economy. Saudi Arabia is a big nation covering almost the entire Arabian Peninsula. The kingdom dwarfs neighboring countries like Kuwait, Iraq, Yemen, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan. Thanks to its vast oil deposits, the country is cash rich with modern cities, advanced technologies, and sleek homes. However, the Saudi Arabia’s culture and beliefs are strongly influenced by the Islamic religion. Members of its society learn the various traditional and cultural values from their families and schools at a young age. The kingdom takes religious functions and calendar very seriously. The highlights of the nation’s calendar are the Ramadan and the national holidays that come after it (Zuhur 345). The Saudi Arabian way of life is also hugely influenced by the old age Arabic traditions. They include the values of hospitality and generosity that every family offers to friends, strangers, and family. Religion and the tradition Arabic culture determine the position of women in the Saudi Arabian society. Women in the Saudi are viewed as inferior to men. The rules that govern their general behavior show their inferiority. For example, women in the nation regardless of marital status or age are required to be in the company of a male guardian when they leave their home and they are not permitted to drive. It is evident that the culture and the Islamic religion of the Saudi Arabian people determine how various institutions of the society are structured and the role women paly in those institutions. The Saudi family and marriage system is also significantly influenced by the country’s culture and traditions. Traditionally, marriage

Sunday, July 28, 2019

Globalization of production and operations management Term Paper

Globalization of production and operations management - Term Paper Example Taking a simple circumstance of the use of computers by the manufacturers and the service sector is the best example that reflects how these businesses are growing rapidly in their domains. Manufacturers and their retailers are commonly joining hands and improving their distribution channels. In this case, the manufacturers are not wholly dependable on their retailers to expand their recognition in the market and help selling their products or services; however, they have their own opportunity to do so with the use of digital computers in collaboration with their retailers. First, the direct computer relationship between retailers and manufacturers have increased the possibility of making the manufacturers aware of the selling and purchasing of their products, while they could even collaborate directly if the products becomes short in market so that the delivery of products could be made in time with maximum customer satisfaction (Kozicki, pp.41-42). This way the manufacturers have g reat opportunity to have first-hand information about their consumers’ demands and can play a major part in increasing their productivity according to their target market’s interests. ... The consumers always want to save their time, money and resources to visit the outlets, choose from a wide range of varieties of products and services and then to reach upon the conclusion of making a purchase or not. In this case, the prospective buyers living abroad cannot even have the possibility of visiting the international outlets easily. Thus, E-Business provides these buyers with an opportunity to place online orders and have their desired products delivered to their doorsteps. This also increases the reach of the manufacturing industry and the service sector to buyers present outside the geographical area. The same could be done by television advertising and providing the prospective buyers a ‘universally accessible number’ to place orders. Yet, all this demands work force on the manufacturers’ or the service sectors’ end to make these facilities available to the consumers. Yet, this advancement also brings a great challenge for the manufacturers and creates quite a conflict between them and their retailers. The retailers are their help these manufacturers sell their products through a proper visible distribution channel. However, if the manufacturers start providing an e-buying service, the business o their retailers would come to an end. Even if it’s not an end, but, it will give a blow to their business and would prove to be a source of loss in the long run as less people would prefer going to the retail markets. This would eventually create competition between the two entities doing the same business and thus, the retailers would have to look for expandable options to increase their selling (Gupta, Koulamas, & Kyparisis, pp. 604-605). Thirdly, people interested in putting their products on auction have an unmatched opportunity

Saturday, July 27, 2019

Chose an interesting topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Chose an interesting topic - Essay Example It works, but then the Queen proceeds to order the execution of nearly everyone she comes into contact with that day. This creates a surreal scene that, once again, Alice seems to find herself a part of. These chapters demonstrate the structure of society that is evident in Wonderland. As frustrating and disorganized as the community may seem to be, the reader now discovers that there is a certain order that keeps the people functioning. Alice discovers that Queen of Hearts is the head of this community and that her word is the last say. Alice finds this ludicrous as she is just the head of a pack of cards, and she begins to work to undermine that authority. We begin to see that Alice’s goal is to truly understand the reality of Wonderland. She is desperately trying to make sense of all that is happening around her. By getting close to the Queen and playing silly games with her, the reader catches a glimpse of Alice’s true motive. She wants the people of Wonderland to stand up to the Queen and realize that the way they are currently living their lives is meaningless. By discovering the meaning of Wonderland, Alice hopes to accomplish just

Friday, July 26, 2019

Data mining Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Data mining - Essay Example access to phone calls, emails, web searches, bank accounts, financial activity, medical records and school records (Garson, 2006; Berson, Smith, & Thearling, 2000). This paper presents an analysis of data mining practices that are used by the government in order to secure or uncover people’s data. Data mining has many advantages in different fields. As massive data based on the information of thousands of individuals, is analyzed, this gives useful knowledge that can help in many ways. Data mining helps in saving time of the experts to make assessments on their own. Today, tools like the Microsoft SQL Server, Rapid Miner, Rapid Analytics and many other programs has made data mining accessible to everyday business users (Koutonin & Remarque, 2014). The most important use of data mining is in the marketing and retail business. Data of consumers is analyzed to build models which predict the trend of choice of the consumers in the market. This trend can also help in launching a new product according to the demands and likes of the buyers. Data mining is a useful tool in giving financial information to banks about the illegal activities performed by some clients. It helps in tracking the fraudulent card transactions to protect the clients. Data mining has been employed in health care centers to analyze different aspects of health of the people. It helps in deducing results according to the demographics and its use has shown improvement in the medical care of the patients. Operational engineering data can detect fault equipment with the help of data mining and determine parameters that can help in controlling such activity (Rajaraman & Ullman, 2011). Data mining tools are interactive, understandable and work directly on the data to present results. But, there are many disadvantages that have surfaced with the use of this technology tool. The most widely spread criticism is the breach of privacy of individuals. Tools of data mining are not only used by the

Thursday, July 25, 2019

Class student dicussions answers Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Class student dicussions answers - Assignment Example There are various security controls that can be undertaken by a company. The argument that David raises concerns emerging security threats in the world today is right. The use of smartphones is on the increase. This has lead to attacks which are targeted at smart phones. With a smart phone also come wireless attacks, which are on the increase. This is something that is becoming a threat even as many organizations adopt wireless technologies. Wireless attacks are becoming common (Fernandez & Jossy, 2004)n. David’s definition of the two approaches to defining risks make sense. Quantitative risk analysis involved putting a monetary value to the risk. Qualitative risk analysis involves identifying a risk and gauging how far the impacts it has. It is like describing the risk and its impact. There are no figures that are associated. This post is succinct and straight to the point. The post by Julius brings a social issue that is emerging. It is hard categorizing this threat under information technology but the explanation given by Julius warrants it to be under information technology. This is a new form of information technology threats that come from hackers trying to practice activism using technology. It is a new method

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Global Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Global Business - Essay Example The company has chosen this market as its first international pilot project because it was geographically and culturally/psychologically close market (Ying Fan, 2009). However, the company realised that it was necessary â€Å"to adjust its business model to suit the new markets† (Ying Fan, 2009:285). Thus, the company has learned the Iron Rule of international business, whereas â€Å"in international business, the seller adapts to the buyer† (Gesteland, 2005: 17). The company continued its business expansion across France, Northern Europe, Mexico, and Greece. Thus, Zara has utilised the benefits of cultural convergence – â€Å"the growing similarity between national cultures, including the beliefs, values, aspirations, and the preferences of consumers, partly driven by global brands, media, and common global icons† (Rugman and Collinson, 2011: 137). Also, Zara has opened a store in New York. Even though it was neither geographically nor culturally close market, it was strategic decision enabling the company to build brand awareness and get close to international fashion brands (Ying Fan, 2009: 286). Thus, Zara has gained knowledge, experience and expertise necessary for successful business development in more distant markets. During the period from 1997 to 2005 Zara has adopted aggressive business expansion and entered other markets despite the fact of geographical or cultural proximity (Ying Fan, 2009). As of January 2006, the company was present in 59 countries across Europe, America, Middle East, Asia and Africa. In order to meet the needs of the consumers from different countries, the company has adopted localization strategy (Rugman and Collinson, 2011). It has adopted its products by modifying cloth size, style, and other elements to local tastes and cultures. In order to enter foreign markets, Zara has adopted three entry modes: own subsidiaries, joint ventures, and franchising. Zara entered most European and South American

Leadership Issues - Managing Diversity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words - 1

Leadership Issues - Managing Diversity - Essay Example Hence, multinational companies have increased their presence in most Asian economies such as China. These multinational companies have seen the growing potential because of the massive improvement in this country that has greatly benefitted from almost three decades of reforms (Warner 2008). Managing in the Chinese Empire The entry of these multinational companies has likewise necessitated the presence of foreign managers to help in the management as well as operations of these multinationals in the Chinese soil. Hence, it was the expatriates that have been tapped for this role. It is their job to supply the necessary skills, both managerial and technical, so that the local counterpart can cope up with the operations of the parent company. Likewise, it is hoped that the presence of the expatriate will greatly enhance the relationship between the foreign and domestic managers of the company. However, be it China or other country, it is important for the foreign counterparts assigned t o these areas to be able to recognize the requirements of the different cultures that they are being immersed into. Globalization has brought forth the need for different multinational companies to maintain a global workforce which requires the foreign nationals that are assigned into these countries to be aware of the cultural differences that is a very important requirement for these foreign managers to be able to work with teams that comprise different cultures (Ibrahim 2010). Key leadership Issues in China A Mass of Followers, A Lack of Leaders In China, the different culture can be really challenging to the expatriate that will be assigned to the area. Chow & Liu (2008) states that most Chinese employees are not that keen on having additional duties or being involved with different or increasing responsibilities. Most of them are just too convenient in the boss-subordinate agreement. It is therefore important for the expatriates to understand and be able to work around such str ong cultural make up. This presents a strong challenge since it is important for the multinational companies to be able to develop their employees and have a fully functional global workforce that will jive with the way the parent company does its business. Employees are very important for a company’s success thus it is very important for the expatriates to be able to rally them behind the corporate strategies necessary for the success of their venture. True, this trait enables the local unit of a multinational company to have sufficient workers that are following the company’s policies and regulations. This trait somehow ensures them there will be followers whenever they lead. However, this relative aloofness as stated by Chow and Liu (2008) can also rob them of possible potential managers that may be tapped to lead the locals. Political Forces Warner (2008) has highlighted the importance the changes have had in China for propelling them into the current stature that they are in right now in the global economy. China has indeed benefitted much from opening their doors to the benefits and opportunities of global commerce. This has been instrumental in providing the necessary boost that is unavailable in a strictly closed economy that has been characteristic of a communist country. However, it is important to remember that the Chinese economy is not yet a full free market economy. Despite having been opened to businesses, the government retains substantial

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Intelligence of the heart Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Intelligence of the heart - Term Paper Example The artist, Rene Schwaller de Lubicz argued that civilization in Egypt is much older than the orthodox Egyptologist suggests it. However, this claim has of recent been disputed by the recently unveiled work of the Graham Hancock and Robert Bauval arguing that Rene might have been unfounded in their artwork research. Despite the opposing views, Rene Schwaller de Lubicz presented that the Egyptian antiquity could not be used as enough proof to place the dissenting voices beyond reproach. He further argued that the study of the Egyptian history could be the basis of insightful thinking with reference to the laws of creation, which was critically fundamental by then. With all care and considerations of Egyptian culture and civilization ranging from the construction of the pyramids, which took the shape of beer mugs, Rene claimed central metaphysical vision to be his source of motivation. This form of motivation could be directed towards the nature of the cosmic harmony and this took cons ideration towards awareness creation of the place of the humanity in the constantly evolving world full of consciousness (Buhner, Stephen & Harrod 2004). Form the remarks of his able translator Deborah, Rene’s studies about Egypt are constituent parts of his widely spread Philosophical and metaphysical pieces of art work. Brief Historical perspective Rene was born in Alsace-Lorraine, which was then part of Germany, he grew up in a polyglot surrounding. Through a Lithunian poet and diplomat, Lubicz Milosz Rene attained the name â€Å"de Lubicz†. This was in recognition of his efforts after the negative impacts of the Second World War in a Lithuania. His city of birth turbulently shifted power between the French and the Germans alternately and this took place right from Rene’s birth (Buhner, Stephen & Harrod 2004). The writer lent a lot of his work in the curious characteristics of his work. Some of the artists associating with Rene suggested that the writer was g ifted in a way that he could think in German and write in French. In addition, he was also gifted with the inherent difficulty of expressing non-linear issues. Such combinations ranged from â€Å"living† to â€Å"dead† linear languages, which presented an uphill task before the previous readers. As suggested in his work, insights of the apropos with regards to functional consciousness, he describes that nature presents a hip or a great mountain which is wound up with a peak of immaculate whiteness which he could not be able to made understand the way towards (Mookerjee & Ajit 2004). In a nutshell, for functional consciousness to be achieved it is vital that a clear roadmap be established showing the procedures towards achieving such objectives. We may be interested in adopting Schwaller’s insights as upcoming artists, the only challenge is that whenever we try doing this, we find ourselves in a very difficult situations given the turbulences facing his works. De spite such concerns, Rene was not actually touched as he argued that it is in the interest of the persons concerned to find their way out. Schwaller believed that knowledge was only a right to those who were willing to make the effort to get the

Monday, July 22, 2019

Emancipation of slavery Essay Example for Free

Emancipation of slavery Essay The writer reflects the emancipation of slavery and how it influenced the American women. For many Americans (the slave owners), it was not possible to think that what will happen if they no longer owe slaves. It was natural for people who were used to the cheap and easy labour found themselves in the middle of nowhere. The demise of slavery gave rise to a new kind of slavery where woman could sell their body. For writer this idea of selling women seems new, but in many tribal societies around the world, women are still sold and bought. The idea of selling body was loathsome in society that was still Victorian in thinking. The moralist advocated ban on streetwalkers and prostitution; while state sought to legalize the body trade, it was this tussle that continued for decades. For many the idea of selling body was a reminiscent of slavery; but even the law itself was dubious about the prostitution. According to the idealist the prostitution stood as a† social system in which all was for sale†. It was this thinking that made prostitution or women at the edge a social issue. For Southerners slavery and marriage was one and the same thing; while for Northerner slavery and prostitution were one and the same thing. The Southerners were used to slavery and bondage, prostitution for them seemed a kind of outlet where they could vent out their frustration along with economic benefits. For Northerners marriage was a sacred idea hijacked by streetwalkers to lure loyal husbands and sons. The Southerners argued that by recruiting black women as slave prostitutes they are limiting the white prostitution again shows double standard. The Northerners argued that prostitution continued because the lusty men of South wanted it. For abolitionists it was unthinkable to mix market economy and family values together in one place. Ironically both of them used prostitution as deformation, but the reality was far different. The author failed to address the core issue of the North and South. The basic reason of differences between the North and South has been economics. In broader sense the North was rapidly modernizing and South felt threatened by it. Being more viable economically means more powerful, the South was still stuck up to agrarian economy. It was under these circumstances in the South slaves were more important compared to North. Being less modern and less developed the slave prostitutes were a source of income for Jones in the South and they could not give it away easily. For North it became ideological because they were already reaping the benefits of industrlized economy. Even in the modern world, prostitution is done by the poorest of the poor in the society. In present day American society, despite all freedom no one considers prostitution a respectable and honourable way of life. In simple words, the women who practice this profession are doing it out of economic necessity. In modern day America, government is willing to accept the porn industry legally regardless of how women are exploited for sake of huge tax that reaches US$50 billion per year. Thus we can say it’s the market economics that is still ruling American society. Reference Stanely, Amy Dru. From Bondage to Contract.

Sunday, July 21, 2019

Development Of Tourism In Sri Lanka Tourism Essay

Development Of Tourism In Sri Lanka Tourism Essay 1. Sri Lanka is a gorgeous tropical paradise island in the  Indian Ocean located close to India, having a diversity of attractions ranging from historical to archeological and natural. Strategic importance gave the exposure to this island nation to establish links between West and East from ancient times due to its array of natural attractions ranging from archeological, historical, long heritage embraced with its rich traditional culture, literature, history and none other than its people whom best known for their friendliness and hospitality has prompted many to visit this beautiful island. 2. Thirty years of separatist war by the world most ruthless terror outfit, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), had devastated especially the Northern and Eastern areas of our country. It had not created much conducive environment for any business including tourism in Sri Lanka. Three decades of war which destructed all most all strata of our society and there were significant destruction for the property and assets in Northern and Eastern areas. Overall infrastructure facilities are very weak in these areas therefore so many core related issues had emerged from this situation. 3. Having preconceived ideas in their minds still most of the people in this part of our country think that they are segregated or discriminated by the Sinhalese majority in the country and they are not treated equally. To outset this mentality and re-build our nation from this post conflict scenario specially the areas in north and east it has identified that development of tourism industry can play a vital role. Having understanding the importancy, government took the initiative to develop infrastructure with the objective of improve the connectivity with north and the east and taken as a whole to reconnect or re-establish link between the south. If you consider these two main areas there are lot of spots readily available to promote tourism and with regard to special consideration given to post conflict scenario new strategy has developed to identify and development of the tourist potential in the North and East. Definitely, this can be use to strengthen the peace and stability an d to win the hearts and minds of the people who had suffered immensely due to the gory of war. AIM 4. The aim of this paper is to emphasis the development of tourism in North and East and how its going to contribute towards achieving sustainable peace. BACKGROUND 5. Known by one or other of its many names like Lanka, Serendib, Taprobane, Zellan, Cellao, Ceylon and most famous as The pearl of Indian Ocean are a few. Sri Lanka was famous for gems, pearls, ivory, spices, irrigation and agricultural systems, boat manufacturing and for tea in ancient time period. Apart from these it was none to other nations if you consider about its sunny and hot beaches, natural rain forests, wild life, water falls, cool misty mountains, various terrain features, archeological sites, flora and many, you name it you can see them all in this paradise island and because of its uniqueness United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) under their world heritage convention has included eight areas including six cultural and two natural areas of those values under world heritage sites which has further amplified the significance of our beautiful island. 6. The areas belong to both north and east have a long-standing history with regard to both ancient and tourism. Cultural heritage of both the districts goes way back to ancient times and it reminds continuous flow of tourists from various parts of the world and it clearly signifies that these areas were continuous attractions of the tourists. Apart from all, these areas were mainly popular for its natural attractions, socio-cultural attractions and man made attractions. 7. Both these areas are very much popular for its long stretches of smooth sandy beaches with warm bluish water. The Nilaveli is considered as one of the best beaches and Arugam bay was recognized as Worlds 13 best surfing loc due to its tropical wave and both the areas covers two third of the coastal line of the country. Eastern coast is recognized as best for the ocean based recreational activities. In addition, all these areas are famous for underwater diving, swimming, whale watching and sailing were some of the attractions for both foreign and domestic tourists in the past mainly before the intensifying of the war. 8. If you take the other attractions you can find some rich cultural heritage sites which give clear evidence about the greatness of our ancestors those who lived in those areas. It is not confined to one religion or community in general there are so many sites related to Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity, all these were best tourists attractions before the war. 9. There are several wild life sanctuaries, aviaries, natural reserves and forest areas especially in the eastern area which added natural attractions and eco based tourism to the nation. 10. Since, these areas were home for multi ethnic communities specially the eastern part it gave a valuable contribution for tourism through cultural diversification. All three major communities Sinhala, Tamil and Muslims were living in harmony in these areas before the war escalated. 11. There were certain steps and actions were taken by the government for the development and promotion of tourism in these areas. Some of them are as fol. a. First Tourism Master Plan (1967-1976). ` b. Second Tourism Master Plan (1992-2001). c. Trincomalee Ocean City Development Plan. d. Strategic Tourism Development Plan for North and East. 12. However, none of above plans were seems to have placed sufficient emphasis on the need to improve tourism due to many reasons and most influential reason was the prolonged war situation prevailed in those areas. POTENTIAL OF EXPANSION OF TOURISM INDUSTRY TO WAR AFFECTED ZONES 13. Sri Lankan government with the intention of developing tourism industry in the North and East had launched certain development projects to achieve its vision to transform tourism industry in the country as the largest foreign exchange earner benefiting the stakeholders of tourism and the people of Sri Lanka. World bank offered its fullest support in this regard and certain areas were totally unreachable due to the war which was there for the last three decades. Therefore, certain performance targets were revised after the eradication of the terrorism problem and subsequent restoration of peace and order in the country. 14. To promote the entire country as a tourist destination based on the overall objective emphasis was given to the development of industry especially in North and East merely not only to gain foreign exchange but also to uplift the condition of the people and also to achieve sustainable peace in the country. Following areas were identified as major development areas in these to provinces. a. Northern province. It has an area of 8,884 square kilometers and demarcated by North central and North western provinces from its south boundary, Gulf of Mannar and Palk bay from its west, Palk straight to the northern tip and Bay of Bengal to its east. There are few administrative divisions in the province, which are Jaffna, Mannar, Kilinochchi, Vavuniya and Mullaittivu. All the areas were badly affected by the three decades of war. Most significant factor in this province is that there are certain islands belongs to this province, those are Mandathivu, Kayts, Punguduthivu, Nainathivu, Karaithivu, Analathivu, Chirathivu, Eluvaithivu, Iranathivu, Nedunthivu, Palaithivu and Kachchathivu. Most of these islands are covered with some sandy beaches. Area is also known for its traditional ancient history, which was enriched, by solid socio and economic culture. Generally, it has a tropical hot climate and estimated population was 1.3 million in year 2007. Important places those are in r elation with tourism as fols. (1) Nagadeepa Temple. (2) Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu Kovil. (3) Jaffna Fort. (4) Jaffna Library. (5) The Sangilian Palace. (6) The Manthri Walauwa. (7) Mawadipuram Kovil. (8) Ponnalai Pond. (9) Dambakolapatuna Temple. (10) Madagal Beach. (11) Cashurina Beach. (12) Delft Island. (13) Kotakadu Beach. (14) Chankanai Church. (15) Kadurugoda (Kantharidai) Buddhist Temple. (16) Bottomless Well at Puththur. (17) Point Pedro Beach and Light House. (18) Vallipuram Kovil. (19) Naguleshwaren Sivam Kovil. (20) Kudiramalai Point. (21) Madhu Shrine in Mannar. (22) Iranamadu Tank. (23) Elephant pass. (24) Vattapalai Hindu Temple in Mullaittivu. (25) Areas related to War Terrorism. b. Eastern Province. With a total gross land area of 9,996 sq km Eastern province is the largest province in the country with fourth lowest population density of 162 persons per sq km. It comprises of three districts namely Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara. All these three districts have some superb bluish beeches and with some added attractions such as whale watching and diving. Ampara, Arugam Bay is famous for its tropical waves which are ideal for surfing. In addition, there are few wild life and bird parks. Main tourists attraction places are as fols. (1) In Trincomalee District. (a) Bay Area in the Outer Harbour consists of: i. Marble Bay. ii. Sweet Bay. iii. Deadman,s Cove. 1v. Clappenburg Bay. (b) Nilaveli/Kuchchaveli/Uppuveli Areas. (c) Coastal Belt from Kuchchaveli to Kokilai Lagoon. (d) Coastal Belt from Kuchchaveli to Sinnakaratchi Area. (e) Pigeon Island conserve as a national park. (f) Kokilai lagoon designated as a bird sanctuary. (g) Thennamaravadi bird sanctuary. (h) Whale and Dolphin watching area outer harbour. (2) In Batticaloa District. (a) The Dutch Fort. (b) Pasikudha Beach/ Kaluwankerny Beach/Kallady Beach/Kayankerni Beach/Mankerni Beach. (c) Kalkudha Bay. (d) Sathrukodan reputed for its bird species and crocodiles. (e) Vakarai Sand Spit, Uppar Lagoon, Panchchankerni and Veranativu famous for its ecological habits. (f) Palameenmadu famous for its attractive landscape. (3) In Ampara District. (a) Arugam Bay. (b) Pottuvil Lagoon. (c) Kalmunai Beach/Komari Beach/Peanut farm Beach. (d) Kumana National Park. (e) Lahugala/Kitulana National Park. (f) Muhudu Maha Viharaya. 15. Identification of the cultural value in the area is an important aspect of tourism, in this relation there are few important areas that we have to consider. The Veddha community still lives in these areas retaining their traditional life style, the wide cultural diversity due to variety of ethnic groups and religions and also the presence of smaller ethnic groups indigenous to the province, such as Malays, Gypsies and Burghers especially in the eastern province. The Ramayana trial linked to the epic Ramayana, there are over 50 sites have been identified in Sri Lanka and six of these in the eastern province. Pada Yathra, an ancient pilgrim tradition is associated with the eastern province via Ampara and Kumana forests areas to Katharagama holy land to worship Lord Murugan. Religious worships were mentioned above and Marine tourism too ads some supplementary value to entire industry. SITUATION ANALYSIS 16. Having considered about the areas which we could expand in order to develop tourism industry in the country it was clearly evident that the areas related to North and East could provide and give a vital contribution in this regard. It is therefore paramount of importance to conduct a situation analysis where we can further get an insight in order to address the matter in an apposite manner. Here we conduct the process under SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis method and consideration of other factors in order to ascertain further components, which are going to affect to achieve our objectives. Following are the findings from the SWOT analysis in respect of the subject matter. a. Northern province will mainly consist of following factors. (1) Strengths. (a) Return of peace and normalcy. (b) Very fine beaches with safe swimming conditions. (c) Cultural experiences. (d) Archeological and historical sites. (e) Religious interest sites. (f) Domestic aviation related areas. (g) Areas related to war tourism. (2) Weaknesses. (a) Inadequate of accommodation/basic facilities. (b) Absence of skilled workers in this field. (c) Religious myths/cast system. (e) Distance from capital. (f) Lack of knowledge about the industry. (3) Opportunities. (a) Better accessibility by roads in near future. (b) Increase interest with regard to field especially after the war. (c) Jobs availability in the trade. (d) Mixture of varieties with regard to interests of the tourists. (e) Fresh beaches/natural sites. (f) Investment which will bring fruitful dividends. (4) Threats. (a) Integration with the local community is low. (b) Sympathetic/ideological differences prevailing against LTTE. (c) Lack of interest of the people to contribute. (d) Financial condition/poverty level. b. Eastern province will mainly consist of following factors (1) Strengths. (a) Return of peace and normalcy. (b) Very fine beaches with safe swimming conditions. (c) Unique seasonality and favorable whether throughout the year. (d) Archeological and historical sites. (e) Religious interest sites/ Cultural experiences. (f) Wild life/bird watching/proximity to national parks. (g) Water sports. (2) Weaknesses. (a) Inadequate of accommodation/basic facilities. (b) Absence of skilled workers in this field. (c) Neglected and poor infrastructure conditions. (e) Local environment problems. (f) Lack of knowledge about the industry. (3) Opportunities. (a) Better accessibility by roads in near future. (b) Increase interest with regard to field especially after the war. (c) Jobs availability in the trade. (d) Mixture of varieties with regard to interests of the tourists. (e) Unique coastal line stretching more than 200 kilometers. (f) Prime Asian holiday destination in summer months. (g) Domestic airport facilities. (4) Threats. (a) Integration with the local community is low. (b) Sympathetic/ideological differences prevailing against LTTE. (c) Lack of interest of the people to contribute. (d) Financial condition/poverty level. (e) Ribbon development occurring along the coastline due to non adherence to the land use planning control. 17. Carefully examination of the outcome of the situational analysis will gives an overall representation of the intention to achieve the objective that is the most precious sustainable peace for our country. There are certain important areas, which have to be address by the government and private sector has to play a vital role of achieving the common objective. As far as the government is concerned, it is therefore necessary to develop infrastructure facilities such as access roads, electricity, water for drinking and other purposes, sewage deposal and waste disposal at the initial stage and private sector could contribute specially with regard to achieve financial stability and development of human resource factor with the aim of facilitating the final outcome. 18. Presently government has launched certain development projects targeting the entire development of these provinces, which were badly affected by the war, and it is important to note that there was no significant development projects were conducted at both these provinces for the last three decades due the escalation of war. 20. Under the Uthuru wasanthaya project which targeted rapid development of Northern province and Eastern revival project which targeted development in the Eastern province, including tourism industry has launched certain mega development projects in order to develop once war tone areas has reached certain impressive standards and this was commended by the International community too. Last year Sri Lanka was among the best tourist attractions/destination in the world and it has recorded 654,477 tourist arrivals, which was the highest number ever recorded during the past ten years. 21. Apart from the development of infrastructure facilities there are some other challenges have to be consider which gives a direct impact to the stability of the peace. Those are resettling of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP), Humanitarian de-mining and Re-integration of ex-LTTE combatants to the society. 22. Careful analysis of the factors, which could use to address the issues with regard to IDPs and ex-combatants in the context of the study, can achieve astonishing results. Development of tourism therefore will come in handy because there are so many avenues are open for us to address some key issues relating for these provinces and thereby reaching towards the outcome. SUMMARY 23. Sri Lanka with its strategic location, diversity of attractions with its rich traditional culture, literature, history and none other than its people whom best known for their friendliness and hospitality has prompted many to visit this beautiful island. 24. Thirty years of separatist war by the world most ruthless terror outfit, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) had devastated especially the Northern and Eastern areas of our country. It had not created much conducive environment for any business including tourism in Sri Lanka. Three decades of war which destructed all most all strata of our society and there were significant destruction for the property and assets in Northern and Eastern areas. Overall infrastructure facilities are very weak in these areas therefore so many core related issues had emerged from this situation. People in the North and East lost their trust towards the majority Sinhalese people and this was further aggravated with the escalation of the war. 25. The areas belong to both north and east have a long-standing history with regard to both ancient and tourism. Cultural heritage of both the provinces goes way back to ancient times and it reminds continuous flow of tourists from various parts of the world and it clearly signifies that these areas were continuous attractions of the tourists. Apart from all, these areas were mainly popular for its natural attractions, socio-cultural attractions and man made attractions. 26. There were certain steps taken by the successive governments and authorities to develop tourism industry in these provinces were failed due to the in-completeness and war situation prevailed in the country. With the dawn of peace to our nation the importancy of developing of the tourism industry in these two provinces were again taken into consideration in order to address certain issues in these provinces. Mainly to uplift the life style of the people and by developing tourism industry will automatically facilitate the development of the area specially in the fields of infrastructure development, telecommunications, technology, trade and finance. Last year Sri Lanka was among the best tourist attractions/destination in the world and it has recorded 654,477 tourist arrivals, which was the highest number ever recorded during the past ten years. 28. Sri Lankan government with the intention of developing tourism industry in the North and East had launched certain development projects to achieve its vision to transform tourism industry in the country as the largest foreign exchange earner benefiting the stakeholders of tourism and the people of Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority and the Hotel school proposed skill-training project in order to uplift the skill level would play a vital role with regard to training aspect. On going mega development projects launched under the ministries of Nation building, Economic development and central bank will gives an added advantage for the fulfillment of the vision. 29. Potential expansion of the industry in these areas were assessed and there were so many spots which we could develop as tourist destinations were identified. With the situational analysis, it was further elaborated what we have to do exactly and what areas should be given the consideration. 30. Apart from the development of infrastructure facilities there are some other challenges have to be consider which gives a direct impact to the stability of the peace. Those are resettling of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP), Humanitarian de-mining and Re-integration of ex-LTTE combatants to the society. Careful analysis of the factors, which could use to address the issues with regard to IDPs and ex-combatants in the context of the study, can achieve astonishing results. Development of tourism therefore will come in handy because there are so many avenues are open for us to address some key issues relating for these provinces and thereby reaching towards the outcome. RECOMENDATIONS 31. Having considered the opportunities available for us it is paramount importance to give the priority to the people in these areas to get them selves employed in the vacancies existing in this field. Priority must be given to ex-LTTE combatants and IDPs. This will also gives the opportunity to re-integrate these people to the society in a fruitful manner. Will also help the reduction of poverty level and unemployment specially in the field of youth unemployment and this will directly facilitate to have sustainable peace in our country because unemployment will lead to many disputes and presently vacancies available in this tourism industry will greatly create the opportunity to address this issue. 32. With the development of tourism industry in both these two provinces will give the opportunity to the people in these areas to market their products. This will reduce the poverty level and in return their income will go up and financial status of the society will go up. This is also very much vital to retain sustaining peace because once you loose or decrease the financial status in the society there is a tendency of getting into a position to demand unnecessarily and to gain adverse advantages in return it will de-stabilize the society. 33. Development of tourism in these provinces will directly enhance the partnership and participation of the people in these areas towards nation development. In return, it will give a positive result of sustaining peace in this country because for the last three decades of time due to the war, participation towards achieving the goals of the nation was deprived from these people. They will also have the equal opportunity to contribute and as well as to get themselves benefited from the outcome. This will also negate the mentality that they were not treated accordingly as per their rights because most of them think being the minority Tamil community in our country they were deprived from their rights and discriminated as a whole by the Sinhalese majority. 34. Expansion of the industry will open up so many other avenues to develop these areas and people whom contained or restricted for a very small geographical area will have the opportunity to establish links between their counterparts in the south. This will also help to build the understanding between people and to win the hearts and minds of the people. People in the south will also get an opportunity to interact with this people and this will narrow down ideological differences they had. Exploiting the opportunity got from this industry will help to reach towards sustainable peace and to develop harmony among the communities. 35. As a whole development of tourism in these provinces will greatly help to develop the infrastructure facilities in these areas and this will help to uplift the social standards to reach for higher living conditions too. This will gives a positive feeling for the people whom have undergone lot of difficulties during the war period and who lived under the crutches of LTTE terrorism. This will also give a positive impact towards achieving of sustainable peace in our country. 36. People in these provinces will get the opportunity to explore the world and more over to establish or earn a reputation among the international community in return this will help to up lift the state of their minds because they will feel the importance of being recognized amongst the international community. This is because of the opportunity that we are getting from the development or expansion of tourism industry.

History Of English Language Teaching

History Of English Language Teaching Today, English is the worlds most widely studied foreign language. Five hundred years ago, Latin was the most dominant language to be studied because it was the language of business, commerce and education in the western world. In the sixteenth century, however, French, Italian and English gain in importance as a result of political change in Europe and Latin gradually became displaced as a language of spoken and written communication (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). Latin became a dead language. It was being started to read in the books as classic language. Children started to enter in the grammar school in sixteenth and eighteenth centuries to learn grammar rules of Latin. To learn Latin language became a mental gymnastic. In the eighteenth century, when modern languages began to enter in the curriculum of the European countries, these languages were taught by the same methods as Latin language was taught. Grammatical rules were memorized. Written practices were done. The passages were translated from the second language to the first language and vice versa (ibid). By the nineteenth century, this method was considered as a standard method of teaching language. The textbooks were divided into chapters. Each chapter contained a certain grammatical rule and rule was practices with a lot of written exercises (ibid). Methods and Approaches of English Language Teaching According to Asher and James (1982), Methods are the combination of techniques that are used and plasticized by the teachers in the classrooms in order to teach their students and approaches are the philosophies of teachers about language teaching that can be applied in the classrooms by using different techniques of language teaching. For example, if a teacher has an approach that language is the communication and learning a language is in fact learning the meanings, functions and uses of language. So the techniques will be based on the communicative language teaching and task based methods. According to Freeman (2000), Methods which are taught to the teachers make a base and give them thinking about the applicable techniques and principles according to the situation where they stand. They are clear about their attraction towards certain methods and also think that why have they repelled certain method. The knowledge of method is very necessary because their knowledge is base of teaching. Grammar Translation Method Grammar translation method was the most popular and widely used method for language teaching between the ages of 1840 to 1940. But this method was first used for teaching and learning Latin language which was not the language of common use at that time. Latin was considered as a classic language. The learners were made able to study the literature of Latin language through learning the grammatical rules of language and learning the vocabulary so that learners may translate the language in their first language and in the second language. Grammar translation method was criticized intensively in the nineteenth century because it was considered that this method cannot fulfill the demands of language learning in nineteenth century. Direct Method The direct method was the outcome of the reaction against the grammar translation method. It was based on the assumption that the learners of foreign and second language should directly think in English. This method is against the translation of written and oral text and focuses on telling the meanings of the words through action, demonstration or real objects. This method focuses on directly thinking, doing discussion and conversation in second language (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). Purwarno (2006) described the aims of the direct method. He described that direct method is an attempt and effort to form a link between thought and expression and between experience and language. Direct method was criticized due to the following reasons: Direct method is successful in private language schools because this method can be applied only in small classes where all the learners can get individual attention. In Direct method, the teachers extravagantly excel in keeping the mother tongue of the learners away from them. Direct method demands the learners to do oral communication in the second language and it also demands the pronunciation and accent to be just like the native speakers so there is need for the language school to hire the native speakers which actually can be very expensive. The success of the direct method depends on the teachers skills and personality more than on the methodology (Richards and Rodgers, 1986). Structural Approach The structural approach mainly employs the techniques of the direct method but the reading and writing skills are not wholly neglected. The structural approach is based on the sound principles of language learning. The structural approach says that the arrangement of the words in such a way as to form a suitable pattern and that pattern may make the meanings of the language clear to us. Any language has its own structure and skeleton which gives this language a decent appearance. A structure is a pattern and a particular arrangement of words which to indicate grammatical meanings. It may be a word, a phrase or a sentence (Gauridushi, 2011). Structural approach was criticized because it was only suitable for lower grades. Continuous teaching of structures and their repetition make the atmosphere dull and boring. It also neglected the reading and writing abilities and there was also a lack of skilled teachers (Sharma, 2011). Oral Approach/ Situational Language Teaching The oral approach is a method in which children to use whatever hearing they get from their surroundings. They also take help from the context to understand and use language. The target is to develop the skills in the individual so that he can communicate and function independently. This approach helps in the development of reading and writing skills (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). The oral approach was developed from 1930s to the 1960s by British applied linguistics such as Harold Palmer and A.S. Hornsby. The main difference between oral approach and the direct method was that the methods which were developed under this approach had theoretical principles about the selection, grading and presentation of the content and material. This sequencing of the content would lead to better learning with a good knowledge of vocabulary and grammatical patterns. In this approach all the points of language were to be presented in situations which led to the second name of the approach i.e. situational language teaching. Although, the teachers are not aware of this approach today but it had long lasting impact on language learning. However, its focus on oral practice, grammar and sentence patterns is still supported by the teachers (ibid). Audiolingual Method Audiolingual method is also known as Army Method because after the outbreak of World War II, the army soldiers decided to be proficient in the languages of their enemies. So a new learning method of foreign languages was discovered which is known as audiolingual method. This method is based on a linguistic theory and behavioral psychology. The audiolingual method was widely used in the 1950s and 1960s and the emphasis was not on the understanding of the words rather on acquisition of structures and patterns in common everyday dialogues (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). The teaching of the oral skills with accurate pronunciation, grammar and the ability to respond quickly and accurately is the main objective of audiolingual method. Reading and writing skills may be taught but they are dependent on the oral skills (Richard and Rodgers, 1986). Total Physical Response In Total Physical Response (TPR), the teacher gives the students instructions and the students follow the instructions by using whole body responses. James J. Asher, a professor, of psychology at San Jose State University developed the method Total Physical Response in late 1960s to help in learning second languages (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). According to Asher (1977), TPR is based on the premise that the human brain has a biological program for acquiring any natural language on earth including the sign language of the deaf. We can see this process if we observe the language learning process of an infant. The communication between parents and the child consists of both verbal and physical aspects. When the child is not able to speak, at the time he/she is internalizing the language. This is the time when code breaking occurs. After this process the child becomes able to speak and reproduce language. In TPR, the teacher repeats the process in the class. Students respond to the commands of the teacher which require physical movement. TPR is most useful for beginners. TPR is also used for teaching students with dyslexia or related learning disabilities. Silent Way Silent way is the method of language teaching which was proposed by Caleb Gattegno. This method is based on the view that the teachers should be silent in the classroom as much as possible but the teacher must encourage the students to speak and use the language. The most important aspect of this method is its elements that are used for language teaching i.e. colored charts and colored rods (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). This method focuses on the learners to discover on their own rather than they remember or memorize something. The learners are facilitated in learning by giving them some problem to solve which involves the materials that are needed to be learnt (ibid). Communicative Language Teaching Communicative language teaching was developed in the era of revolutions in British language teaching traditions from late 1960s. Before communicative language teaching, situational language teaching was in practice in Britain for language teaching. Communicative language teaching was actually developed in the opposition of audiolingual method which focuses on drilling and memorization. Communicative language teaching focuses on developing the ability of communication in learners in real life situations. It focuses on meaning rather than accuracy (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). Natural Approach In 1977, Tracey Terrell proposed the natural approach of language teaching. This approach was influenced by Stephen Krashens theory of language acquisition. The natural approach focuses on communication as the major function of language. In this approach, language is considered as the vehicle or means of conveying a message and information. The natural approach was actually based on the observation and understanding of the acquisition of the first and the second language in informal settings (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). Task-based Language Teaching Task- based language teaching is an approach that is based on the assumption that tasks are the major unit of language learning. This approach is based on the problem solving view that the learners should be given some tasks to be solved. These tasks are related to the language structures that are required to be learnt. The learners interact and communicate with each other during solving these problems. In these way, they learn the language (Richards and Rodgers, 2001). Comparison between Grammar Translation Method and Communicative Language Teaching Grammar Translation Method Grammar translation method was first known in the United States as Prussian Method. Grammar translation method dominated European and foreign language teaching from 1840 to 1940. Characteristics of grammar translation method. According to the Richards and Rodgers (2001), the principle characteristics of Grammar Translation Method are: In Grammar Translation Method, the goal of learning a second or foreign language is mainly to be enabling to read the literature of that language and is to get benefit from intellectual development that results from foreign and second language study. Grammar Translation Method enables to learn detailed grammatical rules of target language and enables to translate into and out of the target language. In Grammar Translation Method, reading and writing skills are focused while listening and speaking skills are totally ignored. In Grammar Translation Method, the memorization of grammatical rules of foreign language and of the vocabulary items is focused. Vocabulary items are limited to the text that they are taught. Vocabulary items are memorized with the help of their meanings in the native language. In Grammar Translation Method, sentenced is the basic unit of teaching and language practice. The learners are enabled to do detailed analysis of a sentence through this method. The learners are enabled to translate a sentence into and out of the target language. In Grammar Translation Method, accuracy is emphasized rather than fluency. The basic purpose of this method used to be able to pass the written examinations. In Grammar Translation Method, grammar is taught deductively i.e. by presenting and practicing the detailed grammatical rules of target language. A syllabus of grammatical rules if followed in which rules are systematically put in to a sequence starting from the simple rules to the complex rules. In Grammar Translation Method, students are directed and instructions are given in the students native language so that they may easily understand the instructions. The students native language is used to explain new items and to enable them to compare two languages i.e. native language of the learners and foreign language. Main techniques associated with grammar translation method. There are some major techniques that are adopted in the teaching of second or foreign language through Grammar Translation Method. Translation of a literary passage. Students translate a reading passage into and out of the target language. In checking of the translation, the focus of the teacher is on vocabulary and grammatical structures. The translation may be written or spoken or both. Students should not translate idioms but must understand their meanings. Reading Comprehension Questions. A passage for reading and understanding is given to the students and they have to answer the questions given at the end of the passage in the target language. The questions are put into a sequence. The first group of questions is related with the information drawn from the passage, second group of questions require students to make inferences based on their understanding of the passage. The third group of questions requires students to relate the passage with their own experiences. Antonym and synonyms. Students are given a list of words and a passage. The students have to find out the antonyms of those words in the passage. Similarly, the students can also be given a list of words and can be asked to find out the synonyms of the given words from the passage. Deductive application of rules. Grammar rules are presented before the students with the all possible information that can be given to the students relating to the grammatical rules. The rules are also explained with examples. Once students understand a rule, they are asked to apply it for some different examples. Fill in the blanks. The students are given a series of sentences with some missing words. The students have to fill in the blanks with some suitable grammar items such a preposition and verbs with different tenses Memorization. The students are given a list of vocabulary to memorize them with their meaning in the native language. Students are also required to memorize the grammatical rules. Use words in sentences. In order to check the understanding of the meaning and sue of vocabulary, the students are asked to use the list of typical words in their own sentences. Composition. The teacher gives a topic to the students to write about that topic in the target language. The topic is based on some aspect of the reading passage of the lesson (Freeman, 1986). Advantages of grammar translation method. Nazir (2002) narrated as The structure of a foreign language is best learnt when compare and contrasted with that of the mother tongue. According to Ishtiaq (2005), the Grammar Translation Method is based on a system and is in a sequence because in this method all the grammatical rules are arranged into a sequence for the convenience of the students. This sequence starts from the simple rules and eventually leads to the complex rules. When a book is written by an author on grammatical rules keeping in view the sequence, he writes one lesson that is completely based on one rule of grammar. Each lesson is divided into certain rules and these rules dominate the lesson. Larson (1986) narrated importance of Grammar Translation Method as in Grammar Translation Method, students are made to learn new words. Therefore, this method helps in improving vocabulary. Reading and writing are the two primary skills that are developed most so as to enable the students to read the literature in target language. Grammar is taught deductively and it makes use of students mother language. Disadvantages of grammar translation method. Neilson (2003) stated that in Grammar Translation Method, oral skills i.e. speaking and listening skills are totally neglected while the whole attention is given to just reading and writing skills. Through this method, the students become able to read the literature of the target language by translating it into their native language but cannot communicate into the target language and even cannot understand the target language spoken by any native speaker. In Grammar Translation Method, the authority of the classroom is totally in the hands of the teacher and teacher is at the centre of the classroom. The communication is just from teachers to students not from student to teacher and not even from students to students. The students are considered empty minded which have needed to be filled with all the possible vocabulary and grammatical structures that can be filled in their minds (ibid). The main disadvantage of the Grammar Translation Method is that it is almost impossible to translate all the phrases and sentences into the target language because the main focus is the translation of this method so such students who have been taught through this method become fail to communicate well in the target language (ibid). In the Grammar Translation Method, accuracy is emphasized rather than fluency and students go on thinking to accurate the grammatical rules which actually hinder their fluency. In Grammar Translation Method, the teacher abruptly interferes and stops the students wherever they make the mistakes so they become conscious while speaking and communicating in the target language and become unable to be fluent (ibid). Criticism of the grammar translation method. There have been various criticisms on the use of Grammar Translation Method for the teaching of modern language particularly English. There are some objections that have been put on the Grammar Translation Method. Grammar Translation Method emphasizes on the reading and writing skills on the expense of listening and speaking skills. But learning the listening and speaking skills of a language is more important than leaning reading and writing skills because it is a natural way of learning a language. In Grammar Translation Method, writing gives learners a reflective chance to look at their writing that whether they have written correct spellings, vocabulary and grammatical rules. The main aim and goal of most of the learners in learning modern languages is not just to develop reading and writing skills whereas they want to communicate well and understand the native speakers language. Grammar Translation Method demands the arrangement of the grammatical rules in a structure starting from the simple rules and leading to the complex rules. While most of the learners especially adult learners want to start using the language straight way because they have not got time to learn all the grammatical rules one by one and start using them after then. Grammar Translation Method emphasizes to make the students learn each rule and practice it one by one and after commanding a rule move to the next one. So there remains the need to revise all the rules again and again so that they may not get washed out of the learners mind. In Grammar Translation Method, sentence is the basic unit of the language. The learners are made able to memorize certain rules of grammar and certain vocabulary which they have to fit everywhere they find a chance to use them. But if learners find some unusual situation they become unable to fit their memorized rules to fit in that situation. In Grammar Translation Method, grammatical rules and vocabulary is memorized in modern ways of teaching a language memorization is not regarded while exposure of a language, experience and use of language is preferred and recommended. People have different learning styles. Some people like to learn vocabulary, grammar rules, phrase and sentences through memorization. But when they have to sue them, they must have time to stop and recall the memorized items. In Grammar Translation Method, the focus of the learners is the manipulation of the grammatical rules and words to write correct sentences with prescribed content. But in learning the modern languages, it is recommended that the major focus should be more and more on the oral practice and expression of the personal meanings. The expression of the personal meanings may spoil the structure of the grammar rules and sentences. In Grammar Translation Method, the teachers and the learners mostly speak in their first language or native language. While it is highly recommended that use of second and target language should be maximized in learning the language but here maximization does not mean teachers and learners should all the time speak in the target language. The speaking of the second language is also advantageous because in language classrooms we may also have multilingual learners that may belong to different languages so a single language i.e. second or target language will be convenient to use without pointing a single native language. In Grammar Translation Method, teacher should explain, describe the grammatical rules, tell the meanings of the words, translate the passages, conduct grammar practices, correct mistakes and teacher should authorized the classroom and learners. But now it is highly recommended that teachers role in the class should be as a guide and facilitator. Teachers role in the language classroom should be less. Teacher should act behind the scene. Teacher should give the problems to the learners to solve, interact among each other and generally it leads the learners to be independent learners. In Grammar Translation Method, translation is the basic technique. Translation is a way of understanding the meanings of the written and oral texts by converting the texts into the first or native language of the learners. Translation is a way of comparing and contrasting two languages i.e. first language and second language. But now it is highly recommended that translation should be avoided because it leads to such a mental process which hinders or stops learning. The learners should be encouraged to speak and even think in second language as much as possible. In Grammar Translation Method, accuracy is emphasized rather than fluency but it is now highly recommended that accuracy should come at the last and fluency should preferred first. If the learners are corrected on their mistakes from the very beginning, they will become hesitant to speak in the target language. When they will start to speak, their minds will abruptly become read to look upon the grammatical rules that they are using so I this way they will become unable to be fluent in language (Jonathan, 2012).