Db2 employment recruitment and select Research Paper

Db2 employment recruitment and select - Research Paper Example The other function involves the non essential functions, as the name suggests they are additional duties laid form a major function being presented. They are either caused by some occurrences or used as additional duties to be carried out workers. They done require specialist to perform them so in major organizations they are usually distributed among amongst all employees. According to (Walker, 2003) Essential and non essential functions are executed with respect to the organization of the subject at hand for example the introduction of a new system be it scientific or simple system the need to describe functions of the employs must be kept in mind. In caring out the essential duties the international laws governing the labor sector must be observed. They include the recommend eight hours of working time is observed and that the working conditions are favorable. The issue of overtime pay must be included in performing these duties. Essential duties are major to the organization for instance an account caring out an audit is termed as essential but when he is involved in matters to deal with training of fellow employees then it becomes non

A Dolls house Language Essay Example for Free

A Dolls house Language Essay Ever since reading the text in my own time I have, in many of my past lessons been discussing, acting and re-reading parts of the play as well as researching many other aspects to the play. By doing this I discovered things like the play was firstly written in Norwegian and then translated into many languages along with many more complex things. Back in lessons I was doing tasks that specifically looked at the language in the play. For example before rein acting a scene from the play the whole class gathered in a circle to do a warm up exercise which evolved around the line; What did you do to die today at a minute or two to two, a thing distinctly hard to say but a harder thing to do. I had to say this line in many different accents and characters including a posh upper class character like Nora and Torvold Helmer from the play. The language used in the play not only creates the feel of the 19th century but it also reflects the way the characters are. It does this as the 19th century old English is very formal showing there middle to higher class and well educated. The language also shows the society that the characters live in and is significant as it reveals their inner thoughts, feelings relationships and situations. In one particular part of the play Torvold says: You cant deny it, little Nora now can you? Its a sweet little songbird but it gets through a terrible amount of money you wouldnt believe how much it costs a man when hes got a little songbird like you This rather poetic and metaphoric line compares Nora to a songbird which is petit and shows she can be sweet, innocent and chirpy. It also echos how Torvold belittles Nora and treats her like a child, which in them days was the done thing; men overpowering women and controlling the relationship in addition to this it perhaps shows how he has a fatherly figure and likes to take control over situations. Although in saying that Nora is or should I say acts rather childlike and naive herself but at the same time is manipulative, flirtatious and cunning as it proves on the opening line of the play; Hide that Christmas tree away, Helen. The children mustnt see it before Ive decorated it this evening As well as giving the audience a rough date and establishing shot it shows how Nora seems just as excited about Christmas as the children do. In most houses the children would be helping to set up the Christmas tree but not in the Helmer household Nora is setting up the tree and rather excited about it too. There is some reference to poetry in the text although it is not the rhyming type, its more a usage of poetic words being exchanged. Like in the first quote I made there are countless uses of words like songbird and squirrel being used to describe Nora as well as Torvold (in some parts of the play). There is another quote in Act 1 on page 25 where Nora has just gone out and bought some new things for the family, which Torvold is unhappy about as she has spent so much money which makes Nora unhappy too, it says; Now, now! My little songbird mustnt droop her wings. Whats this? Is little squirrel sulking? (takes out his purse) Nora; guess what Ive got here! This quote to me shows how he just keeps Nora sweet but does not go out of his reach to keep her happy. Also the use of poetic words is very creative and wise it is saying to Nora do not loose hope or become sad. But it says this in a metaphoric way as Nora does not really have wings but a songbird does and this is what Nora is often compared to by Torvold. The majority of the speech used throughout the play is natural from all of the characters as the play itself is done rather realistically and flows well. There are very rare if any uses of Brectian techniques to break any language or any part of the play up for example; there are no placards to make a particular line stand out, this is probably as each line is just as important as the one before. Even though there is reference to use of poetic language I think it gives the play even more of a realistic effect as people do have little pet names for there husband and wife. In addition to this Henrik Ibsen goes that step further and creates for each character there own realm of speech as a quote from the Methuen Student notes verifies: Ibsen creates for each character a habit of speech appropriate to his or her own class and personality With Torvold he is spoken with a rather fatherly/paternal type of speech, Krogstad he always reflects to his training as a lawyer, Mrs Linde speaks direct and could appear a bit bitter and cold, Nora is excitable but finds resolve at the end of the play and Dr Rank speaks in riddles and fondness of using figures of speech. Over all this coursework has made me realise how important the lines actually are in a play and how important it is to deliver them correctly. As well as consistency when delivering the lines in a certain way the character must keep delivering them in that way. I personally believe that this may enhance my skills as a yr 12 drama student.

Procurement of Subcontract Packages

Procurement of Subcontract Packages Purpose The aim of this paper is to investigate how Main Contractor procurement procedures influence value on a project through competitively tendering Sub Contract packages; whereby cost is driven down by competition or single sourcing Sub Contract packages creating value through negotiation and innovation. Design/Methodology/Approach Empirical data was collected through structured questionnaires issued to Sub Contract companies and Main Contractor firms. 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Background What the Study is about When considering the procurement of a Sub-Contract package, the procurer is faced with numerous challenges. First he/she needs to gather all information required to decipher what needs to be procured and how the information can be transposed to potential Sub-Contractors. Secondly a contractual agreement is created including obligations and methods of compensation. Thirdly, the procurer needs to decide how to award the procurement contract between the Sub-Contractors, either through competitive tendering or single source negotiation. Ultimately the award method should result in the selection of a highly competent and desirable Sub-Contractor resulting in a cost effective product. The award method may be appointed to Sub-Contractors in two ways. Either a single Sub-Contractor can be approached to discuss and agree the works (single source tendering), or a number of Sub-Contractors can be invited to compete for it (competitive tendering). With regards to competitive tendering it is important to distinguish the method or form of competition from the criteria used for the selection of Sub-Contractors. Ciria (1994, p15) states that competition may be either: Open, where there is no limit on the number of Sub-Contractors invited to compete for work. Or Selective or restricted, where the number of Sub-Contractors invited to compete is limited. For the purpose of this study open competitive tendering will not be taken into consideration to keep the number of variables to a constant. Where competition is referenced throughout the paper we are to assume selective or restricted competition. 1.2 Research Focus This paper addresss the potential increase of project value generated by detailing a partnering approach based on Sub-Contractor and Main Contractor relationships; compared to that of traditional competitive tendering. Competitive tendering can be described as determining the value of the subcontract; whereas in contrast, negotiation is designed to create the value of the subcontract. Since the Latham Report (1994) and Egan (1998) was published there has been a greater awareness regarding the possible benefits to single source a product or service. In theory if contractors and subcontractors engage and work together would it provide best value? Alternatively would value be added by competition? Competitive tendering is still widely recognised as an attractive procurement mechanism and is strongly advocated as it helps to stimulate and promote competition encouraging many potential suppliers. This subject area has been addressed due to its close relationship with the Quantity Surveying profession. Accurate procuring of goods and services is essential to a projects success, having a direct impact on profit margins. This study is relevant to everyday work for a site based Quantity Surveyor dealing with nominated Sub-Contractors on a daily basis while working closely with the procurement team to procure future packages. Interest has motivated the investigation and address of the thesis question; Single source or competitive tendering; which procurement route gives best value? 1.3 Overall Research Aim and Individual Research Objectives The overall aim of this research is to advance an understanding of the impacts that tendering Sub-Contract packages through negotiation or competition have on a projects value. However, in order to understand tendering methods and its effects on value it is felt necessary to gain an insight into the forces driving Sub-Contractor and Main Contractor relationships and explore the barriers to implementation of both parties achieving maximum value. Further, this research will assess existing practices, exploring the experiences and views of professionals involved with Sub-Contract procurement. In turn two main research vehicles will be exploited to facilitate this study: an in depth review of relevant literature and the collection of and analysis of empirical data. The chapter entitled Methodology contains the details of both research strategy and data collection techniques to be used to obtain empirical data. Specifically, a range of objectives have been developed and unpacked from the central question, the objectives of this research are to: Identify and investigate the forces driving single source and competitive tendering procurement routes. Evaluate critically the construction industries current views and opinions, compiling the attitudes of the experts. Explore and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages for each method of procurement. Formulate and propose recommendations on the procurement route that provides more value to a construction project. 1.4 Value of this research At the risk of oversimplification of the purpose and value of each of the above objectives, objective 1 focuses on methods, reasons and emerging issues. Whereas it is in objectives 2, 3 and 4 is where this research will make key contributions to the field of Sub-Contract package procurement through single sourcing or competitive tendering. Each of the objectives must not be viewed as separate, unrelated issues. The listed objectives are necessarily interlinked. The first objective on investigating procurement routes will cover the strategic drivers and methods associated with the procurement of Sub-Contract packages. For example, it will, in effect, attempt to answer the question are there forces driving companies to procure Sub-Contract packages in certain ways and, if so, what are they and what do they involve? An example of such driver could be perceived as communication, which if the case, may act as a driver to encourage negotiation through single sourcing Sub-Contractors. Obj ective 2 on critically analysing the construction industries views provides an opportunity to gain meaningful insight into the views of professional staff, and management form Sub-Contractor and Main Contractor backgrounds, on what would encourage them to procure Subcontract packages through either negotiation or competition, what would discourage them and how these link to value creation as well as their views on the industries past and current approaches. Objective 3 on the advantages and disadvantages is of obvious relevance to assist in the analysis of each procurement route and links in with objective 4. Finally objective 4 formulating recommendations will, as a result of both a review of literature and the collection and discussion of empirical data, make recommendations. The objectives are not to be seen as independent of each other, but rather as all linked to issues surrounding procurement routes and how they can add value in the construction industry. 2.0 Literature Review 2.1 Introduction This literature review will examine the main issues surrounding the drive for single sourcing and competitive tendering associated with Sub-Contractor selection. Emphasizing current obstacles and potential benefits for each procurement routes from both parties. The study within this review of literature focuses on objectives 1 and 2 as set out in sub-section 1.3 of the Introductory chapter (the third objective will be completed through the vehicle of empirical data collection and analysis, while the final objective objective 4 is derived as a result of findings from objectives 1, 2 and 3): Identify and investigate the forces driving single source and competitive tendering procurement routes. Evaluate critically the construction industries current views and opinions, compiling the attitudes of the experts. Explore and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages for each method of procurement. Formulate and propose recommendations on the procurement route that provides more value to a construction project. By exploring the above areas of literature, a significant contribution will be made to this research. At the end of this chapter it is hoped that a critical understanding of key issues is exhibited, that the reader will be better informed in these areas and that there will emerge a clear focus, and justification, for empirical research in the field of Sub-Contractor procurement methods and their effect on value during a construction project. 2.2 Forces driving single source and competitive tendering procurement routes. 2.2.1 Historical Events Government Legislation Subcontracting became a popular practice in the 1960s and over the years established itself as an integral part of the industries production process. Projects were procured using traditional methods of delivery with main contracts being awarded through competitive tendering (Uher, 2009; Davenport, 2009, p.200). During these years the economy was stable with little inflation and low interest rates, the contractor was seen as the Master Builder due to employing most of its own direct labour and only specialised areas of work such as mechanical and electrical were subcontracted. Since the late 1960s the worlds economies experienced periodic economic downturns, increased inflation and higher interest charges. With the Construction Industry being highly susceptible to economic fluctuations, the adverse economic actions changed the traditional practices of the construction industry; one of the foremost changes being the shift towards subcontracting. Since the early 1990s the Construction Industry has continued its conflict-ridden competitive tendering culture, together with adversarial working relationships throughout its supply chain, (Brindley, 2004). The Construction Industry continued to pressure its suppliers to lower prices, along with delaying payments to them so that it could profit from a level of interest. This tradition placed risk on smaller businesses causing them to cease to exist or execute projects at inferior quality. Authors in the early 1990s were somewhat certain about their view between main contractor and subcontractor relationships; with main contractors driving prices down even if detrimental to quality, not paying subcontractors on time and in some cases forcing smaller companies to cease trading. The UK government, concerned by these facts employed Sir Michael Latham in 1994 and Egan in 1998 to produce two reports. Latham advocated the need for a Code of Practice for subcontractor procurement and for st atutory backing to fair payment terms (Latham, 1994). Consequently in 1996 the Construction Industry Board published and implemented a Code of Practice for the Selection of Subcontractors and the Housing Grants and Regeneration Act. In addition, Egan (1998) pointed out that partnering through the supply chain is a critical approach with which the UK construction industry can drive innovation and sustain incremental improvement in performance. In recent years main contractor supply chain relationships have changed from the traditional adversarial to the joint venture, with tendering experiencing a retreat from traditional methods of procurement towards single source processes. According to Davenport (2009) the contribution of subcontractors to the total construction process can account for as much as 90 per cent of the total value of a construction project. One of the results of this is that main contractors are concentrating their efforts on managing site processs rather than employing direct labour to undertake construction work. Main contractors have recognised the positive impacts that closer working relationships with subcontractors can have on package value and quality. Most work undertaken on construction partnering has been between client and main contractor relationships with little mention of adopting partnering with subcontractors. 2.2.2 The Contracting Framework A central problem in procurement is that both Sub-Contractors and Main Contractors share uncertainty about many important design changes that occur after the contract has been awarded. These changes are usually a consequence of design failures, unexpected conditions and changes in regulations, which have an effect on project costs. This observation suggests that relationships between both parties can become adversarial hindering supply chain relationships. Therefore project design completeness will have an impact on the procurement award method selected. (Tadelis, 2006; Bajari, 2006) argue that simple projects, requiring an uncomplicated design ought to be procured using fixed-price contracts as they have high design completeness. Therefore preventing the need for contract variations, and are best awarded through competitive tendering. In contrast (Tadelis, 2006; Bajari, 2006) state that complex projects demanding large design give rise to surprises throughout the projects due to low levels of design completeness. Implying that there will be a high chance for variations therefore it should be awarded through negotiation. The insight for these thoughts is through incentives to reduce costs that follow on site variations consequently having an effect on a projects overall value. In fixed price contracts, the Sub-Contractor offers the procurer a lump sum price to carry out the works as specified, with any changes being negotiated throughout the contract. The incentives for a Sub-Contractor to reduce tender costs offered by fixed price lump sum tendered contracts will lead to increased costs for the Main Contractor through variations when changes need to be negotiated. This valuable surplus to the Sub-Contractor leads to efficiency loss through the Sub-Contractor wishing to use these changes to his advantage. On the topic of competitive tendering Tadelis (2006, p.4) states: While competitive bidding does have the advantage of unbiased awarding of projects, it fails to respond optimally to ex post adaption. Therefore it appears that competitive tendering stifles coordination between Sub-Contractors and Main Contractors before specifications and drawings have been finalised. After all a Sub-Contractor has no incentive to offer the procurer advice on value engineering or innovative ideas, if anything the Sub-Contractor would benefit from holding any information from the Main Contractor as they would offer a competitive advantage over the rival competitors. Once awarded the contract the anticipated design errors will be discovered and the Sub-Contractor will be in a position to claim excessive variation costs. However In negotiated single source tendering both the Main Contractor and Subcontractor typically spend time discussing the project before construction begins. During these discussions the Sub-Contractor will have better incentives to suggest potential cost saving techniques through design and specification changes. Accompanying this more design pitfalls will be picked up before a p roject begins, potentially adding value. The competitive pressure through negotiating contracts with a single Sub-Contractor is weak with the procurer not achieving all the potential cost savings. 2.3 The construction industries current views and opinions Competitive tendering is widely recognised as an attractive procurement method and is commonly supported for numerous reasons. Largely it is viewed as a means of promoting and stimulating competition amongst Sub Contractors. By its nature open competitive tendering invites potential Sub Contractors from many venues reducing the likelihood for price inflation (Tadelis, 2006; Bajari, 2006). Fair market price discovery is beneficial to this type of tendering with open competitive mechanisms being transparent, making it easier to prevent corruption. (Cira,1994) suggests that competitive tendering has three significant advantages over negotiation which as as follows: Competition encourages a systematic approach which is more likely to yield the right Sub-Contractors than negotiation with a single Sub-Contractor Competition is a transparent process and so helps satisfy the increasing demand for accountability in both public and private sectors. Competition can give clients better value for money, particularly when compared on the basis of both their ability and fees. An interesting point made by CIRA, 1994 pg 14 arguing against competition was that Sub-Contractor input at an early stage cannot be described well enough to allow fair competition. This is because the Sub-Contractor helps define the works needed and bids consist of an element of judgement due to incomplete design. CIRA also mentioned that initially competition is a time consuming and expensive process and costs may outweigh any value saved. However the benefits of selecting the most suitable Sub-Contractor for the job could outweigh this initial investment. Competition can have practical exceptions to its use through complicated packages where only one Sub-Contractor has the specialist expertise needed. Or is services are needed urgently and there is not enough time to undertake the competitive process properly. Competitive tendering, where the lowest bidder gets awarded the contract, is deeply embedded in the construction industry and can be destructive in the long term as the need to minimise transactional costs tends to reduce quality and client satisfaction. The emphasis on cost competition, and the traditional adversarial Main Contractor Sub-Contractor relationships, results in frequent changes in participating firms from one construction project to another. This makes collaboration between them difficult. Partnering leading to single sourcing between Sub-Contractors and Main Contractors has been cited as effective approaches to overcome these difficulties and add value to a project. (Dainty, 2001) identified the following barriers to integration from the subcontractor point of view: Financial/cost-related issues related to competitive tendering based on price, which has developed adversarial relationships that result in serious problems with regard to payments; Planning/time-related issues, such as false expectations on part of the main contractor and unrealistic schedules; and Attitude-related issues, such as arrogant conducts, exclusion of the subcontractor from the early phases, lack of praise for good performance, poor site management practices, and lack of understanding of subcontractors problems. Latham (1994) defines partnering as a contractual arrangement between two parties for either a specific length of time or for an indefinite time period. The parties agree to work together, in a relationship of trust, to achieve specific primary objectives by maximizing the effectiveness of each participants resources and expertise. It is for this reason, that principal contractors are oblivious of the fact that sub contractors can bring added value to the construction project (Dainty et al., 2001). Conversely authors such as (Dimitri, 2006) recognise competitive tendering as an attractive procurement mechanism, stimulating and promoting competition, hampering corruption and inviting more potential subcontractors to price work. Although the single sourcing approach has shown promising results, there are some cases in which subcontractors have considered that it did not add any value, while some main contractors have seen little benefit in forming alliances with firms that they do not regularly work with (Dainty et al. 2001). Egan (1998) feels that sub contractors should be involved in the design team as early as possible. An argument which is echoed by Briscoe et al. (2004), who believes that sub contractors should be procured early, therefore need knowledge and ability to exercise value engineering and other innovation exercises. The primary reason for selecting sub contractors is their innovation and knowledge, not necessarily for the lowest price. However, high performing sub contractors use their innovation and knowledge, and can often deliver a better service at a lesser price. Low performing sub contractors offer only on low price, while high performing contractors offer value (Garrison, T. 2006). The next stage of this research will detail the Research Methods to be used to capture the empirical data, including details on the research strategy to be adopted, data collection techniques, sample selection and management of the researchers role. Ethics Statement When undertaking a research project careful consideration must be taken to ensure that any material contained within the project causes no harm or potential harm to anyone, or organisation. Ethics is the science that deals with conduct, in so far as this is considered as right or wrong, good or bad. (Dewey, 2008) An Ethics Review Checklist has been completed (Appendix A) which has highlighted a potential area for approval. This is due to the methods of research being undertaken which involve human participation. These activities specifically include questionnaires; to ensure they are executed in a morally correct and ethical manner the following steps will be taken. Ensuring that the subjects have the option to grant voluntary consent the questionnaire will be structured in a way that participants can opt out of answering either individual questions or not participate at all. This is honoured by all questionnaires being issued to the subjects via e-mail, permitting candidates to return the document in their own time and at their own will with no pressure to respond, therefore there will be no reason for any of the participants to feel uncomfortable. All questionnaires issued will be sent with a participation consent form and information sheet. The questionnaire refers to this documentation via a disclaimer that by returning the survey the subject agrees to the terms and conditions and privacy statement as disclosed in the consent form. This disclaimer ensures the subject that careful consideration is being taken to ensure that all participants and respective companies remain anonymous, to prevent any possible harm. Subjects will be referred to by job role only with no mention of name or company to eliminate any matters of commercial risk or damage to reputations. Feedback will be issued to subjects that assisted in the research thanking each subject for his/her time and input; including a summary of the findings once all research has been populated. In line with the Data Protection Act 1998 upon completion of the research all completed questionnaires and sensitive data will be destroyed, including any stored on hard disk and in the recycle bin. Two hard copy publications of the finished article will be produced for the university, in addition with one electronic; these publications may be available for public viewing in the university library which is disclosed in the participation information sheet. I intend to conduct a number of case studies for research; therefore it is incredibly important that each case study will be alphabetically referenced, with no mention of any information that could identify the individual, project, location, contractor, client or consultants. All material will remain unidentifiable including any diagrams, illustrations or drawings used. This ensures that all parties involved can be assured that there will be no information detailed in the document which could potentially cause harm. All sensitive material collated will be dealt with due care, and destroyed in the correct manner either by shredding hard copies or deleting the information from hard disk. Any secondary research undertaken will be wholly and correctly recognized to the author and source throughout the dissertation by means of Harvard referencing. Methodology Introduction A valuable aspect to this research relates to Objective 2: the opportunity to study the construction industries current views and implementation in practice in a subject that, although generating much discussion, is in terms of research in its embryonic stages. Research Strategy One research method that will be adopted, related to research strategy, is a questionnaire. What is a questionnaire approach and why is it suitable for this research? Cohen and Manion (2007: 317) describe a questionnaire accordingly: The questionnaire is a widely used and useful instrument for collecting survey information, providing structured , often numerical data, being able to be administered without the presence of the researcher, and often being comparatively straight forward to analyse. According to this definition, a questionnaire is therefore concerned with seeking individuals views, facilitating this researchers drive to probe deeply into answering the thesis question as to which procurement route provides more value by seeking representatives opinions. Cohen and Manions definition also gives merit to a questionnaires practical consideration, aiding the justification for using this researchers chosen research strategy and data collection technique. Data Collection The questionnaire has been structured using primarily qualitative research as it is linked to in-depth exploratory study. Enabling the opportunity for quality responses exist through open ended questions, probing participants thoughts and views. Denzin and Lincoln (2003) hold that qualitative research involves studying things in their natural settings, attempting to make sense of, or interpret, phenomena in terms of the meanings people bring to them. The subjects have been selected through convenience sampling, a non-probability approach to sampling as they have been exclusively targeted. Convenience sampling was used because of its expediency through issuing questionnaires to staff in the organisation for which this researcher works, and to subcontractors whom this researcher has dealt with. Through having a prior association with the subjects a better rate of return has been achieved, with subjects wanting to engage more in the research. In addition to this further time will be spent by each individual on providing more detailed responses further enhancing the thoroughness of this paper. Respondents are construction professionals and range from job roles such as estimators to surveyors and project managers to directors. The wide variety of job roles will give me the levels of unbiased data required to reach a conclusion. This method of research has been selected with the aim that subjects ideas and insights may lead to other, m ore detailed and representative research. Two different questionnaires were issued via electronic mail to a pre populated list of employees with one questionnaire issued to subcontractors and the other to main contractors. The purpose of this was so that the questions could be tailored to suit either the contractor or subcontractor, it was important to collate both views to reach an accurate conclusion. The theory behind using E-mail to distribute and collate the questionnaires was that it is much more reliable than circulation by post, easier to manage and track, whilst being convenient to people encouraging a larger participation as well as being more environmentally friendly and cost effective. Limited background data was requested such as position in company and level of industry experience as I felt other information would be irrelevant and not unpack the central question. There are no more than ten questions asked per questionnaire, it was felt that no further questions were required as a conclusion can be drawn from t he results and that by using fewer questions the participant is more likely to contribute as it will not encroach on their working day. The questions have been structured in a standardised manner so that they can be interpreted and analysed efficiently, there is a balance between open and closed questioning. Framework for Data Analysis Limitations and Potential Problems Convenience sampling suits this area of study because it is industry specific, by targeting known subjects this reduces the limitations of the research as there is only one researcher so manually sourcing or random sampling would be very time consuming with no guarantee of the quality of results. A perceived limitation with using questionnaires for research is that they are limited in number. This is predominantly justified due to the lack of time available as a student. To negate this risk the subjects were carefully selected to ensure a high rate of questionnaire return and an increased level of detailed answers. Methodology Rational Behind the Questions Questions issued to Sub-Contractors Interviews were dismissed as a potential research strategy; the rationale behind this is for the reason that unlike questionnaires they are not anonymous. Therefore interviewees may hold back from their true feelings or not give as much detail in their answers. This researcher has counteracted this by using open ended questions in the questionnaire permitting the subject the opportunity to express concerns and genuine views with the knowledge of total incognito; further substantiating that by using a questionnaire counts as valid empirical research due to its is suitability and relevance to this research paper. This researchers own primary data has been collected due to the lack of previous literature available on this subject; the majority of accessible information is concerned with client and contractor relationships and not contractor/subcontractor relations. Findings Introduction This chapter reveals the results of the survey described in Chapter 3 Methodology. This research concentrates on obtaining the views of Sub-Contractors and Principle Contractors with regards to single sourcing or competitively tendering Sub-Contract packages. Survey Findings; Description, Analysis and Synthesis Main Contractor Question 1.0 The first question Question 1.0 was: Do you feel that repeat work with the same subcontractor improves the working relationship in terms of discussing site issues/valuations? Response 17 (81%) of subjects questioned felt that working with the same Sub-Contractor improves the working relationship with 4 (19%) arguing against the majority. One respondent responded positively: A collaborative working relationship forms the basis of a much stronger approach to on site discussions and subsequent resolution of variations. Another stated: It needs to be two ways, with both parties fully buying into the benefits. One member conjectured that repeat business can improve working relationships however; at times this can be tested due to commercial pressures. No Main Contractor respondents stated a reason behind why repeat work with the same Sub-Contractor does not improve the working relationship. The replies from Main Contractor personnel suggest that there is still a problem with collaborative working. Although 81% of respondents viewed repeat work with the same Sub-Contractor in a wholly positive light, 19% felt differently. Question 2.0 The second question Question 2.0 was: Do you believe that repeat work with the same subcontractor gives a higher quality of workmanship? Response This question gave rise to many mixed views with 57% of the subjects surveyed believing that repeat work with the

Fairness of the SAT :: Standardized Tests ACT SAT Essays

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) was created to test college-bound students on their mathematical and verbal aptitudes and to thus predict their ability to succeed academically in college. In the United States, the SAT is the oldest and most widely used college entrance test. It was first administered in June 1926 to only 8,040 high school students and is now taken by over 2 million students. Over the years, the SAT has become one of the most important tests of a teenager's life for admission to college. The test is administered seven times a year at thousands of testing centers throughout the United States. Most colleges consider the SAT to be a reliable predictor of academic success in college and is therefore used as a critical tool when selecting applicants. However, the question that has to be confronted is whether the test is fair to all students. Educators have been questioning the validity of the SAT to determine college admission or to predict academic success because the test appears to be discriminatory and biased against women, minorities, and the poor (low income). The Educational Testing Service (ETS), which produces and administers the test, claims that the SAT in its current form "is an impartial and objective measure of student ability" (Owen 272). However, critics of the SAT argue "that tests like the SAT measure little more than the absorption of white upper-middle-class culture and penalize the economically disadvantaged" (Owen 10). The statistical reality of SAT scores is that: students who take coaching/prep courses do better than those who are not coached; men do better than women; whites do better than blacks; and the rich do better than the poor. Based upon my research, the SAT appears to be discriminatory against women, minorities, and the poor, and a test this flawed should not be used as a key factor in c ollege admission or as a predictor of academic success. In March 2005, a "new and improved" SAT will be introduced to theoretically eliminate any questions deemed biased and discriminatory. This revised SAT would appear to be a concession to the out-cry of criticism against the current test. However, since the new test will emphasize achievement rather than aptitude, it will once again favor the student who can afford coaching and attends a high school with a superior curriculum, i.e. the rich and white. An "equal opportunity" college entrance examination is virtually impossible because someone will always have/obtain an advantage.

Single Phase Transformer

Transformer BEE2123 ELECTRICAL MACHINES Mohd Rusllim Bin Mohamed Ext: 2080 A1-E10-C09 [email  protected] edu. my  © MRM 05 Learning Outcomes ? At the end of the lecture, student should to: ? Understand the principle and the nature of static machines of transformer. Perform an analysis on transformers which their principles are basic to the understanding of electrical machines. ?  © MRM 05 Introduction ? ? ? ? A transformer is a static machines. The word „transformer? comes form the word „transform?.Transformer is not an energy conversion device, but is a device that changes AC electrical power at one voltage level into AC electrical power at another voltage level through the action of magnetic field, without a change in frequency. It can be either to step-up or step down. Transmission System TX1 TX1 Generation Station 33/13. 5kV 13. 5/6. 6kV Distributions TX1 TX1  © MRM 05 6. 6kV/415V Consumer Transformer Construction ? Two types of iron-core construction: a) b) C ore – type construction Shell – type construction ? Core – type construction  © MRM 05 Transformer Construction ? Shell – type construction MRM 05 Ideal Transformer ? An ideal transformer is a transformer which has no loses, i. e. it? s winding has no ohmic resistance, no magnetic leakage, and therefore no I2 R and core loses. ? However, it is impossible to realize such a transformer in practice. ? Yet, the approximate characteristic of ideal transformer will be used in characterized the practical transformer. N1 : N2 I1 V1 E1 E2 I2 V2 V1 – Primary Voltage V2 – Secondary Voltage E1 – Primary induced Voltage E2 – secondary induced Voltage N1:N2 – Transformer ratio  © MRM 05 Transformer Equation ? Faraday? s Law states that, ?If the flux passes through a coil of wire, a voltage will be induced in the turns of wire. This voltage is directly proportional to the rate of change in the flux with respect of time. Vind ? Emf ind d? (t ) dt Lenz? s Law If we have N turns of wire, Vind ? Emf ind d? (t ) ? ?N dt  © MRM 05 Transformer Equation ? For an ac sources, ? Let V(t) = Vm sin? t i(t) = im sin? t Since the flux is a sinusoidal function; ?(t ) ? ? m sin ? t Then: Therefore: d? m sin ? t Vind ? Emf ind ? ? N dt ? ? N m cos ? t Thus: Vind ? Emfind (max) ? N m ? 2? fN? m N m 2? fN? m ? ? ? 4. 44 fN? m 2 2  © MRM 05 Emf ind ( rms) Transformer Equation For an ideal transformer E1 4. 44 fN1? m †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ (i) ? In the equilibrium condition, both the input power will be equaled to the output power, and this condition is said to ideal condition of a transformer. E2 4. 44 fN 2? m Input power ? output power V1 I1 cos ? ? V2 I 2 cos ? ? V1 I 2 ? V2 I1 ? From the ideal transformer circuit, note that, E1 ? V1 and E2 ? V2 ? Hence, substitute in (i)  © MRM 05 Transformer Equation Therefore, E1 N1 I 2 ? ? ? a E2 N 2 I1 Where, „a? is the Voltage Transformation Ratio ; which will determine whether the transformer is going to be step-up or step-down For a >1 For a E2 E1 < E2  © MRM 05Step-down Step-up Transformer Rating ? Transformer rating is normally written in terms of Apparent Power. ? Apparent power is actually the product of its rated current and rated voltage. VA ? V1I1 ? V2 I 2 ? Where, ? I1 and I2 = rated current on primary and secondary winding. ? V1 and V2 = rated voltage on primary and secondary winding. ? Rated currents are actually the full load currents in transformer  © MRM 05 Example 1. 1. 5kVA single phase transformer has rated voltage of 144/240 V. Finds its full load current. Solution 1500 I1FL ? ? 10. 45 A 144 1500 I 2 FL ? ? 6A 240  © MRM 05 Example 2.A single phase transformer has 400 primary and 1000 secondary turns. The net cross-sectional area of the core is 60m2. If the primary winding is connected to a 50Hz supply at 520V, calculate: a) The induced voltage in the secondary winding b) The peak value of flux densit y in the core Solution N1=400 V1=520V A=60m2 N2=1000 V2=?  © MRM 05 Example 2 (Cont) a) Know that, N1 V1 a? ? N 2 V2 400 520 ? 1000 V2 V2 ? 1300V b) Emf, E ? 4. 44 fN ? m ? 4. 44 fN ? Bm ? A? known, E1 ? 520V , E2 ? 1300V E ? 4. 44 fN ? Bm ? A? 520 ? 4. 44(50)(400)( Bm )(60) Bm ? 0. 976 x10 ? 5Wb / m 2 (T )  © MRM 05 Example 3.A 25kVA transformer has 500 turns on the primary and 50 turns on the secondary winding. The primary is connected to 3000V, 50Hz supply. Find: Full load primary and secondary current b) The induced voltage in the secondary winding c) The maximum flux in the core Solution VA = 25kVA N1=500 V1=3000V N2=50 V2=? a)  © MRM 05 Example 3 (Cont) a) Know that, VA ? V ? I I1FL VA 25 ? 103 ? ? ? 8. 33 A V1 3000 b) Induced voltage, N1 I 2 a? ? N 2 I1 ? 8. 33 ? I 2 ? 500? ? ? 83. 3 A ? 50 ? I1 ? 8. 33 ? E2 ? E1 ? 3000? ? ? 300V I2 ? 83. 3 ? c) Max flux E ? 4. 44 fN ? 300 ? 4. 44(50)(50)? ? ? 27mWb  © MRM 05Practical Transformer (Equivalent Circuit) I1 R1 X1 Ic V1 RC Io I1 ’ Im Load Xm E1 E2 V2 N1: N2 I2 R2 X2 V1 = primary supply voltage V2 = 2nd terminal (load) voltage E1 = primary winding voltage E2 = 2nd winding voltage I1 = primary supply current I2 = 2nd winding current I1? = primary winding current Io = no load current Ic = core current Im = magnetism current R1= primary winding resistance R2= 2nd winding resistance X1= primary winding leakage reactance X2= 2nd winding leakage reactance Rc  © MRM 05= core resistance Xm= magnetism reactance Single Phase Transformer (Referred to Primary) ? Actual MethodI1 R1 X1 Ic Io I2 ’ Im Load RC Xm E1 E2 V2 R2’ X2’ N1: N2 I2 V1 ? N1 ? R2 ‘ ? ? ? N ? R2 ? ? 2? ? N1 ? X2'? ? ? N ? X2 ? ? 2? 2 2 OR R2 ‘ ? a R2 2 ?N ? ‘ E1 ? V2 ? ? 1 ? V2 ? N ? ? 2? I I2 ‘ ? 2 a  © MRM 05 OR V2 ‘ ? aV2 OR X 2 ‘ ? a2 X 2 Single Phase Transformer (Referred to Primary) ? Approximate Method I1 R1 X1 R2’ X2’ Ic V1 RC Io I2 ’ Im Load Xm E1 E2 N1: N2 I2 V2 ?N ? R2 ‘ ? ? 1 ? R2 ? N ? ? 2? ?N ? X2'? ? 1 ? X2 ? N ? ? 2? 2 2 OR R2 ‘ ? a R2 2 OR X 2 ‘ ? a2 X 2 ?N ? ‘ E1 ? V2 ? ? 1 ? V2 ? N ? ? 2? I I2 ‘ ? 2 a  © MRM 05 OR V2 ‘ ? aV2 Single Phase Transformer (Referred to Primary) ? Approximate Method I1 R01 X01V1 aV2 In some application, the excitation branch has a small current compared to load current, thus it may be neglected without causing serious error. ?N ? R2 ‘ ? ? 1 ? R2 ? N ? ? 2? ?N ? X2'? ? 1 ? X2 ? N ? ? 2? 2 2 OR R2 ‘ ? a R2 2 ?N ? ‘ V2 ? ? 1 ? V2 ? N ? ? 2? OR V2 ‘ ? aV2 OR X 2 ‘ ? a2 X 2 R01 ? R1 ? R2 ‘  © MRM 05 X 01 ? X 1 ? X 2 ‘ Single Phase Transformer (Referred to Secondary) ? Actual Method I1 ’ R1’ X1’ Ic Io I2 Im Xm’ R2 X2 V1 a RC’ V2 ?N ? R1 R1 ‘ ? ? 2 ? R1 OR R1 ‘ ? 2 ? N ? a ? 1? ?N ? X 1 ‘ ? ? 2 ? X 1 OR ? N ? ? 1? 2 2 ?N ? V V1 ‘ ? ? 2 ? V1 OR V1 ‘ ? 1 ? N ? a ? 1?  © MRM 05 X1' ? X1 a2Single Phase Transformer (Referred to Secondary) ? Approximate Method I1 ’ R02 X02 Neglect the excitation branch V1 a V2 R02 ? R1 ‘? R2 X 02 ? X 1 ‘? X 2 ?N ? R1 R1 ‘ ? ? 2 ? R1 OR R1 ‘ ? 2 ? N ? a ? 1? ?N ? X 1 ‘ ? ? 2 ? X 1 OR ? N ? ? 1? 2 2 ? N2 ? V ? ?V1 OR V1 ‘ ? 1 V1 ‘ ? ? N1 ? a ? ? I1 ‘ ? aI1  © MRM 05 X1' ? X1 a2 Example 4. For the parameters obtained from the test of 20kVA 2600/245 V single phase transformer, refer all the parameters to the high voltage side if all the parameters are obtained at lower voltage side side. Rc = 3. 3? , Xm =j1. 5? , R2 = 7. 5? , X2 = j12. 4? Solution Given Rc = 3. 3? , Xm =j1. 5? , R2 = 7. ? , X2 = j12. 4?  © MRM 05 Example 4 (Cont) i) Refer to H. V side (primary) E1 V1 2600 a? ? ? ? 10. 61 E2 V2 245 R2 ‘ ? a 2 R2 2 V2 ‘ ? aV2 To refer parameters to primary, Use R2? =(10. 61)2 (7. 5) = 844. 65? , X2? =j(10. 61)2 (12. 4) = 1. 396k? Rc? and X c? becoz parameters were read from secondary side Rc? =(10. 61)2 (3. 3) = 371. 6? , Xm? =j(10. 61)2 (1. 5) = j168. 9 ?  © MRM 05 2nd I I2 ‘ ? 2 X2'? a X2 a Example (What if.. ) 4. For the parameters obtained from the test of 20kVA 245/2600 V single phase transformer, refer all the parameters to the high voltage side if all the parameters are obtained at lower voltage side side.Rc = 3. 3? , Xm =j1. 5? , R2 = 7. 5? , X2 = j12. 4? Solution Given Rc = 3. 3? , Xm =j1. 5? , R2 = 7. 5? , X2 = j12. 4?  © MRM 05 Power Factor ? Power factor = angle between Current and Voltage, cos ? V I ? I ? = -ve Lagging ? V I V ? = +ve Leading ?=1 unity  © MRM 05 Example 5. A 10 kVA single phase transformer 2000/440V has primary resistance and reactance of 5. 5? and 12? respectively, while the resistance and reactance of secondary winding is 0. 2? and 0. 45 ? respectively. Calculate: i. ii. The parameter referred to high voltage side and draw the equivalent circuit The approximate value of seco ndary voltage at full load of 0. lagging power factor, when primary supply is 2000V.  © MRM 05 Example 5 (Cont) Solution R1=5. 5 ? , X1=j12 ? R2=0. 2 ? , X2=j0. 45 ? i) Refer to H. V side (primary) E V 2000 a? 1 ? 1 ? ? 4. 55 E2 V2 440 I1 R01 9. 64 V1 X01 21. 32 aV2 R2? =(4. 55)2 (0. 2) = 4. 14? , X2? =j(4. 55)20. 45 = j9. 32 ? Therefore, R01=R1+R2? =5. 5 + 4. 13 = 9. 64 ?  © MRM X01=X1+X2? =j12 + j9. 32 = j21. 3205? Example 5 (Cont) Solution ii) Secondary voltage p. f = 0. 8 Cos ? = 0. 8 ? =36. 87o 10 ? 103VA Full load, I FL ? ? 5A 2000V From eqn. cct, 1 V1? 0o ? ( R01 ? jX 01)( I1? ? ? o ) ? aV2 2000? 0o ? (9. 64 ? j 21. 32)(5? ? 36. 87 o ) ? (4. 5)V2 V2 ? 422. 6? 0. 8o  © MRM 05 Transformer Losses ? i. ii. Generally, there are two types of losses; Iron losses :- occur in core parameters Copper losses :- occur in winding resistance i. Iron Losses Piron ? Pc ? ( I c) 2 Rc ? Popen circuit ii. Copper Losses Pcopper ? Pcu ? ( I 1) 2 R1 ? ( I 2) 2 R2 ? Pshort circuit or if referr ed , Pcu ? ( I 1) 2 R01 ? ( I 2) 2 R02  © MRM 05 Poc and Psc will be discusses later in transformer test Transformer Efficiency ? To check the performance of the device, by comparing the output with respect to the input. ? The higher the efficiency, the better the system. Efficiency ,? Output Power ? 100% Input Power Pout ? ?100% Pout ? Plosses ? V2 I 2 cos ? ?100% V2 I 2 cos ? ? Pc ? Pcu ? ( fullload) ? ?(load n ) ? VA cos ? ?100% VA cos ? ? Pc ? Pcu nVA cos ? ?100% 2 nVA cos ? ? Pc ? n Pcu Where, if ? load, hence n = ? , ? load, n= ? , 90% of full load, n =0. 9 Where Pcu = Psc Pc = Poc  © MRM 05 nmax ? ? Poc VArated ? P ? ? sc ? ? ? VArated ? ? ? ? Pc VArated ? P ? ? cu ? ?VArated ? ? ? Voltage Regulation ? The measure of how well a power transformer maintains constant secondary voltage over a range of load currents is called the transformer's voltage regulation ?The purpose of voltage regulation is basically to determine the percentage of voltage drop between no lo ad and full load.  © MRM 05 Voltage Regulation ? For calculation of Voltage Regulation, terminologies may be quite confusing, hence you need always think in current, I (A) point of view â€Å"Full-load† means the point at which the transformer ? is operating at maximum permissible secondary current ? When connected to load, current being drawn, hence Voltage drop) ? ? No Load means at Rated At no load, current almost zero, so takes Voltage at rated  © MRM 05 value – think like an open circuit) Voltage Regulation Voltage Regulation can be determine based on 3 methods: a) b) c) Basic Definition Short – circuit Test Equivalent Circuit  © MRM 05 Voltage Regulation (Basic Defination) ? In this method, all parameter are being referred to primary or secondary side. ? Can be represented in either ? Down – voltage Regulation Note that: VNL ? VFL V . R ? ?100% VNL (at Rated Value) VNL ? Up – Voltage Regulation VNL ? VFL V . R ? ?100% VFL  © MRM 05 Vo ltage Regulation (Short – circuit Test) ? In this method, direct formula can be used. V . R ? V . R ? Vsc cos sc ? ? p. f ? V1 ?100% If s/c test on primary side Vsc cos c ? ? p. f ? V2 ?100% If s/c test on primary side Note that: „–? is for Lagging power factor „+? is for Leading power factor Must check that Isc must equal to IFL (I at Rated), otherwise  © MRM 05 can? t use this formula Voltage Regulation (Equivalent Circuit ) ? In this method, the parameters must be referred to primary or secondary V . R ? I1 R01 cos ? p. f ? X 01 sin ? p. f V1 I 2 R02 cos ? p. f ? X 02 sin ? p. f V2 ? 100% 100% If referred to primary side V . R ? ? If referred to secondary side Note that: „+? is for Lagging power factor „–? is for Leading power factor  © MRM 05 assume j terms ~0Comment on VR ? Purely Resistive Load ? > 3 % is considered poor VR Normally poor than Resistive Load ? Inductive Load ? ? Example of application Desired Poor VR ? ? Disc harge lighting AC arc welders  © MRM 05 Example 6. In example 5, determine the Voltage regulation by using down – voltage regulation and equivalent circuit. Question 5 A 10 kVA single phase transformer 2000/440V and V1? 0o ? ( R01 ? jX 01)( I1? ? ? o ) ? aV2 2000? 0o ? (9. 64 ? j 21. 32)(5? ? 36. 87 o ) ? (4. 55)V2 V2 ? 422. 6? 0. 8o  © MRM 05 Example Solution Down – voltage Regulation Know that, V2FL=422. 6V V2NL=440V Therefore, V .R ? VNL ? VFL ? 100% VNL 440 ? 422. 6 ? ?100% 440 ? 3. 95%  © MRM 05 Example 6 (Cont) Equivalent Circuit I1=5A R01=9. 64? X01 = 21. 32? V1=2000V, 0. 8 lagging p. f V . R ? I1 R01 cos ? p. f ? X 01 sin ? p. f V1 ? 100% 5 ? 9. 64(0. 8) ? 21. 32(0. 6)? ? ? 100% 2000 ? 5. 12%  © MRM 05 Example A short circuit test was performed at the secondary side of 10kVA, 240/100V transformer. Determine the voltage regulation at 0. 8 lagging power factor if Vsc =18V Isc =100 Psc=240W Solution Check: 7. I FL2 I FL2 VA 10000 ? ? ? 100 A V 100 ? I sc , Hence, we can use short-circuit method V . R ? Vsc cos sc ? ? p. ? V2  © MRM 05 ?100% Example 7 (Cont) V . R ? Vsc cos sc ? ? p. f ? V2 ? 100% Given p. f ? 0. 8 Hence, ? p. f ? cos ? 1 0. 8 ? 36. 87 o Know that , Psc ? Vsc I sc cos ? sc ? sc ? cos ? 1 ? ? ? Psc ? ? ? ? Vsc I sc ? 18 cos 82. 34o ? 36. 87 o V . R ? ?100% 100  © MRM 05 ? 12. 62% ? ? 240 ? ? ? 82. 34 o ? cos ? 1 ? ? (18)(100) ? ? ? ? Example 8. The following data were obtained in test on 20kVA 2400/240V, 60Hz transformer. Vsc =72V Isc =8. 33A Psc=268W Poc=170W The measuring instrument are connected in the primary side for short circuit test. Determine the voltage regulation for 0. 8 lagging p. f. use all 3 methods), full load efficiency and half load efficiency.  © MRM 05 Example 8 (Cont) V . R ? Vsc cos sc ? ? p. f ? V2 ? 100% Given p. f ? 0. 8 Hence, ? p. f ? cos ?1 0. 8 ? 36. 87 o Know that , Psc ? Vsc I sc cos ? sc ? Psc ? ? sc ? cos ? ?V I ? ? ? sc sc ? ? 268 ? ? ? 63. 4o ? cos ? 1 ? ? (72)(8. 33) ? ? ? ?1 Z sc ? Vsc 72 ? ? 8. 64? I sc 8. 33 ? Z sc ? 8. 64? 63. 4o ? 3. 86 ? j 7. 72 ? R01 ? jX 01 because connected to primary side.  © MRM 05 Example 8 (Cont) 1. Short Circuit method , V . R ? Vsc cos sc ? ? p. f ? V1 ? 100% 72 cos 63. 4o ? 36. 87 o V . R ? ?100% ? 2. 68% 2400 ? ? 2. Equivalent circuit , V .R ? I1 R01 cos ? p. f ? X 01 sin ? p. f V1 ? ? ? 100% 20000 ? 3. 86(0. 8) ? 7. 72(0. 6)? 2400 ? 100% ? 2. 68% 2400  © MRM 05 Example 8 (Cont) 3. Basic Defination , V1 ? I1Z 01 ? aV2 ? 20000 ? 2400 ? o? o 2400? 0 ? ? ? ? 36. 87 ? 8. 64? 63. 4 ? ? ? V2 ? 2400 ? ? 240 ? V2 ? 233. 58? 0. 79 o V o ? ? VNL ? VFL V . R ? ?100% VNL ? 240 ? 233. 58 ? 100% 240 ? 2. 68%  © MRM 05 Example 8 (Cont) ?( full load) (1)(20000)(0. 8) ? ?100% ? 97. 34% 2 (1)(20000)(0. 8) ? 170 ? (1) (268) (0. 5)(20000)(0. 8) ? ?100% ? 97. 12% 2 (0. 5)(20000)(0. 8) ? 170 ? (0. 5) (268) ?( half load)  © MRM 05 Measurement on Transformer ? i. ii.There are two test conducted on transformer. Open Circuit Test Shor t Circuit test ? ? ? The test is conducted to determine the parameter of the transformer. Open circuit test is conducted to determine magnetism parameter, Rc and Xm. Short circuit test is conducted to determine the copper parameter depending where the test is performed. If performed at primary, hence the parameters are R01 and ©X0105and vice-versa. MRM Open-Circuit Test ? ? Voc Ic Measurement are at low voltage side Poc ? Voc I oc cos ? oc From a given test parameters, ? ?1 ? P oc Voc ? oc ? cos ? Voc ? V I ? ? ? oc oc ? I sin? Im Ic oc oc Ioc RcXm ?oc Ioccos? oc Hence, I c ? I oc cos ? oc ? Im I m ? I oc sin ? oc Then, Rc and X m , Voc Voc Rc ? , Xm ? Ic Im Note: If the question asked parameters referred to high voltage side, the parameters (Rc and Xm) obtained need to be referred to high voltage side  © MRM 05 Short-Circuit Test ? ? Measurement are at high voltage side If the given test parameters are taken on primary side, R01 and X01 will be obtained. Or else, viceversa. R01 X01 Psc ? Vsc I sc cos ? sc ? Psc ? ? sc ? cos ? ?V I ? ? ? sc sc ? Hence, Vsc Z 01 ? sc I sc ? 1  © MRM 05 For a case referred to Primary side Z 01 ? R01 ? jX 01 Example 9.Given the test on 500kVA 2300/208V are as follows: Poc = 3800W Psc = 6200W Voc = 208V Vsc = 95V Ioc = 52. 5A Isc = 217. 4A Determine the transformer parameters and draw equivalent circuit referred to high voltage side. Also calculate appropriate value of V2 at full load, the full load efficiency, half load efficiency and voltage regulation, when power factor is 0. 866 lagging.  © MRM 05 [1392? , 517. 2? , 0. 13? , 0. 44? , 202V, 97. 74%, 97. 59%, 3. 04%] Example 9 (Cont) From Open Circuit Test, Poc ? Voc I oc cos ? oc ? 3800 ? ? ? 69. 6o ? oc ? cos ? ? (52. 5)(208) ? ? ? I c ? I oc cos ? oc ? 1 Voc Ic Iocsin? oc IocIoccos? oc ? 52. 5 cos 69. 6o ? 18. 26 A I m ? I oc sin ? oc ? 52. 5 sin 69. 6o ? 49. 2 A ?oc Im ?  © MRM 05 Example 9 (Cont) Since Voc=208V i. e. low voltage side ? all reading are taken on th e secondary side (low voltage side) Voc 208 Rc ? ? ? 11. 39? I c 18. 26 Voc 208 Xm ? ? ? 4. 23? I m 49. 21 Parameters referred to high voltage side, ? E1 ? ? 2300 ? Rc ‘ ? Rc ? ? ? 11. 39? ? ? 1392? ?E ? ? 208 ? ? 2? 2 2 ? E1 ? ? 2300 ? ? ? ? 4. 23? Xm'? Xm? ? ? 517 ? MRM 05 . 21?  © ? 208 ? ? E2 ? 2 2 Example 9 (Cont) From Short Circuit Test, First, check the Isc I FL1 VA 500 ? 103 ? ? ? 217. 4 A V1 2300 Since IFL1 =Isc , ? ll reading are actually taken on the primary side Psc ? Vsc I sc cos ? sc ? 6200 ? ? ? 72. 53o ? sc ? cos ? ? (95)(217. 4) ? ? ? ?1 ?V ? Z 01 ? ? sc sc ? I ? ? sc ? ? 95 ? o o 72. 53 ? 0. 44? 72. 53 ? 217. 4 ?  © MRM 05 ? 0. 13 ? j 0. 42? Example 9 (Cont) Equivalent circuit referred to high voltage side, R01 0. 13? X01 0. 42? V1 Rc 1392? Xm 517. 21? V2? =aV2  © MRM 05 Example 9 (Cont) For V2 at full load, neglect the magnetism parameters, R01 0. 13? X01 0. 42? v1 v2? pf ? cos ? ? 0. 866 ? ? cos ? 1 0. 866 ? 30o  © MRM 05 Example 9 (Cont) Efficie ncy,? ? ? VA cos ? ? FL ? ? ? ?100% ? VA cos ? ? Psc ? Poc ? ? ? 500 ? 103 )(0. 866) ? ? 100% (500 ? 103 )(0. 866) ? 6200 ? 3800 ? ? ? 97. 74% ? ? nVA cos ? ?1 L ? ? ? ? 100% 2 nVA cos ? ? n 2 Psc ? Poc ? ? ? ? (0. 5)(500 ? 103 )(0. 866) ? ? 100% 3 2 ? (0. 5)(500 ? 10 )(0. 866) ? (6200)(0. 5) ? 3800 ? ? 97. 59%  © MRM 05 Example 9 (Cont) Voltage Regulation, ?Vsc cos ? sc ? ? pf ? V . R ? ? ? ?100% E1 ? ? ? (95) cos? 72. 53 ? 30 ? ? 100% 2300 ? ? ? 3. 04% ? ?  © MRM 05 Test Yourself on Final Exam Q ? Following are the test result of a 12 kV A, 415 V / 240 V, 50 Hz, two winding single phase transformer: Open circuit test (reading taken on low voltage side) 240 V 4. 2 A 80 WShort circuit test (reading taken on high voltage side) 9. 8 V ? Determine: i. 28. 9 A 185 W The values of Rp. Rs. Xp, Xs, Xm and Rc, assuming an approximate equivalent circuit. ii. The efficiency of the transformer at full load and 0. 8 lagging power factor. iii. The voltage regulation at full load and 0. 8 lagging power factor.  © MRM 05 Solution i. Solution ? ? ? ? Eff = 97. 3 % ? V. R = 2. 31 % Z = 57. 14 ? Rc = 714. 3 ? Xm = 57. 31 a = 1. 73 R1 = 0. 11 ? R2 = 0. 037 ? X1 = 0. 13 ? X2 = 0. 043 ? ? Refer to Primary, ? ? ? ? ?  © MRM 05 Any Questions Test 1 – coming soon Make sure you prepared for that†¦  © MRM 05

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Civil Rights And Public Policy Essay Example Civil Rights And Public Policy Paper Civil Rights And Public Policy Paper Essay Topic: Claim of Policy All men are created equal has had little weight In American society and has been the cause of social unrest in America for decades. From blacks to minorities to women, unequal treatment has been the cause of protest and objection. Civil rights and inequality cases and issues are focused on by Congress, the courts, and the bureaucracy. Not only is discrimination an issue against race and gender, other groups have been demanding social and constitutional protection. There are some that have to do with GE and disability, and there are more controversial ones like sexual orientation. Call rights must be demanded and quieted upon. These fights have to take place on philosophical levels, as well as Constitutional interpretations. The Declaration of Independence might have stated equal rights for all, but does it actually mean equal opportunities for all. Even though we might have equal opportunities, does that mean we all have equal chances of succeeding? Do all of these other minorities have the same chance to succeeding as do all other peoples? Are they all getting the same results and reward? This Is the focus of the 21st call liberties fight. Founding fathers did not explicitly mention equal rights for all; however, the interpretations of the constitution and other historical documents do no not limit freedom to any specific government. The constitution is unequal in many terms. The First Amendment didnt explicitly allow freedom of expression which allows people to protest for equality. Equality only appeared in the post-civil War in the Fourteenth Amendment which prevents states from making laws depriving anyone from their rights, In this case, equal protection. Equal protection Is a key tool for determining call rights and equality. Standards of review are used by the higher courts to determine nature of potential discrimination. For example. In Standards of review, there are laws that classify groups based on age and wealth. They have to pass test and get a result of reasonableness. Then there is potential classification by gender and that must passed pass intermeddle scrutiny. The last is classification by race, in which the laws are Inherently suspected. The most important group of people who have fought tirelessly for their rights are the African Americans. For the first 250 years the united States was created, blacks were treated as property with no rights. The 1 857 Dread Scott Scott v. Sanford ruling declared that even slaves escaping to free states had no rights as a citizen and that Congress could not ban slavery in the territories. The Missouri Compromise made Missouri a slave state but with the condition that the northern territories were free. After all of this and decades later, the thirteenth Amendment banned slavery and Involuntary servitude which led to the era of reconstruction and segregation which broke three Amendments at the same time. The 13th, 14th, and the 15th. In the 1896 Please v. Ferguson case: Supreme Court gave Constitutional justification to segregation, ruling that separate but equal was Constitutional. This made segregation even worse because the government was officially supporting it after they had made those three amendments. Equal education was a major issue now. From this issue rose the issue of busing which was extremely popular among all people In ten earlier years. From tens Issue, Trot ten education and from many other issues, the Civil Rights Movement was formed. The Civil Rights Movement, and its nonviolent activists, attempted to end political, social, and economic policies that promoted segregation. By the asses the majority of white Americans supported civil equality. The influence of courts and shifting public stances led to many public policies and laws aimed at promoting racial equality in the asses and asses. Most notably, the Civil Rights Act of 1964: made racial discrimination in public accommodation areas (ex. Restaurants and hotels) illegal. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 would be the most massive attempt to enforce black forage. After the Brown ruling, congress set to end all forms of segregation. After the African American Civil Rights Movement, other minority groups set out to claim their rights. Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, and Arabs Americans and Muslims. Women also battled public policy. Feminists groups sprung out of nowhere in the past century. For the first time in American history an American Women almost won presidency. Wage discrimination is an issue under the spotlight. Sexual harassment is an issue that been around for a very long time. Womens enlistments in the military has been a huge turning point for women in history. Other groups Active under the Civil Rights Umbrella are the elderly of America. Presidential candidates focus a great deal of their time on this social group. People with disabilities have also been asking for rights and have been facing much discrimination. LIGHT have been gaining massive support nowadays, with their issue being one of the biggest controversial issues Americas has faced. Affirmative Action is a policy designed to give special attention to or compensatory treatment for members of some previously disadvantaged groups.

Fogbusters inc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Fogbusters inc - Essay Example The territory to investigate and give an innovation proposal and settle on a discriminating choice is the assembling and supply benefits Some of the items transformed by FOGBUSTERS Inc framework incorporate Goslyn. This is an immiscible fluid separator which works under hydro static weight and does not have any moving parts. Creative (patent pending) innovation has the proficiency to constantly and for all time uproot Fats, Oils & Greases from waste gushing. It keeps empties free as a bird while killing the requirement for unreasonable splashing frameworks or oil trap pumping. It additionally uproots the strong flotsam and jetsam that move beyond empty wicker bin. It is ordinarily these solids, blending with the fats, oils and oils that cause the lions share of channel blockages. FOGBUSTERS Inc System is altogether "greener" than the elective frameworks focused around various supportability favorable circumstances, It gets water cleaner (more level ppm of FOG), essentially diminishes the utilization of chemicals and decreases the era of oil ooze that overall obliges trucking expenses. Also, it decreases landfill use, lessens the glitch of downstream wastewater medicine frameworks, and encourages reusing of waste FOG for biodiesel generation and different employments. Most biofuel feedstocks (corn, canola, oil palm and other oil products) occupy cropland and different assets from sustenance preparation (the nourishment vs. fuel situation) come as a bi-result of Fogbuster. A business’s technological advancement plays a huge role in choosing where to locate a business. A well-developed internet, communications, and technology makes doing business across borders easy. It is like removing all boundaries that exist whether physical or imaginary. Most businesses have developed their technological infrastructure thus greatly easing the way of doing

Winston Churchill Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Winston Churchill - Essay Example Churchill served as a Member of the British Parliament between 1900 and 1905, before proceeding to serve as the Colonial Under-Secretary between 1905 and 1908. As the Colonial Under-Secretary, Churchill was the midwife the Transvaal Constitution. This was a watershed in British politics since it determined race relations among Britons and served as the genesis of recognition of the rights of blacks in Britain to participate in politics (Younger, 134, 135). In a separate wavelength, it is important to appreciate the contributions that Churchill made during his tenure as the President of the Board of Trade, during the time between 1908 and 1910. This was the time he was out of Parliament: from 24 April 1908 to May 1909, Churchill was out of Parliament. As the President of the Board of Trade, Churchill successfully made milestones in labor dispute mediation; made arbitrations in court; conducted and facilitated labor exchanges; and set the minimum wage for workers. The setting of minimum wage for workers improved people’s socio-economic welfare and increased Britain’s overall domestic purchasing power. Another way in which Churchill influenced British politics, criminal justice systems and socio-economic welfare is by championing for key reforms (in the relevant sectors) when he was the Home Secretary. This took place between 1910 and 1911. Within this time and in this capacity, Churchill successfully championed for the Home Rule for Ireland, the Strike intervention and Prison reforms. Churchill also sponsored the passage of the Insurance Act and the Labor and Shop Acts. As if the foregoing is not enough, Churchill also made immense contributions in Britain’s military progress. In this light, because of his impeccable performance in military, Churchill rose up through military ranks and the culmination of his progress was him serving as the First Lord of the Admiralty from 1911 to 1915 (DEste,

Explain the concept of precedent, making specific reference to the Essay

Explain the concept of precedent, making specific reference to the doctrine of promissory estoppel as developed in the case of C - Essay Example The achieved stability allows for predictability in law in addition to offering some degree of individual rights security. Precedent also ensure that the law only develops with regards to the changing view-points of communities, thereby, reflecting, more accurately, the expectations and morals of the community. The concept of precedent makes a system adaptable to changing and varying circumstances; rational, highly practical, and puts into consideration various human experiences2. The doctrine of precedent also referred to stare decisis, is not only the most important aspect of Common Law, but is indeed a distinctive feature of the said tradition. It is true that, for dynamism and coherence, Common Law depends on precedent for the preservation of its tradition. Therefore, what is this concept of precedent, which is so much a key part of Common Law? Precedent is an expression-shorthand-of stare decisis, which means to stand by the decisions3. In practice and theory, the concept of pre cedent implies that courts of lower cadre must follow or ensure their decisions are in tandem with those of courts of higher cadre in questions of law, and that, those higher courts should, by themselves, depart from decisions that they had prior made on questions of law, only in the event that there are important reasons for them to do so4. In simpler terms, the concept of precedent requires that court stand by their decisions in questions of law that are similar. The principles of precedent apply to decisions interpreting positive law as much as it applies to customary laws5. It should be noted that, in the event that lower courts fail to follow precedent of a higher court in its decision, chances are, such decisions can be reversed in appeal. In the case of ‘Central London Property Trust Ltd V. High Trees House Ltd [1947] Kb 130’, 1947, in which Central London had sued High Trees House for full payment of rent despite their previous agreement in 1940, where High Tree s House was to pay rent reduced by half6, is a perfect example of how the concept of precedence has been utilized in making decisions of questions in law. Judge, Lord Denning, J., in his ruling or judgment, that the full rent was payable from mid-1945 when the flat was fully occupied, followed past precedent from previous decisions such as that in the case of Hughes v Metropolitan Railway Co7. According to the principles of precedent, a court can only depart from past precedent only with strong justification. Deviation from precedent is permissible in the event that earlier decision has obvious error or the principle of law that the precedent established is not reasonable; or in the event that there are changes in law that render the reasoning behind the earlier decision weak8. This is evident in Judge, Lord Denning, J., judgment, which in his continued obiter statement; he claims that Central London would not have been able to receive full rent if they had tried to claim it from 19 40 onwards. This statement was not in binding with precedent; however, it led to the creation of the doctrine of promissory estoppel. The judge reasoned that, in the event that a person lead another person to believe that he/she will not enforce strict legal rights, the courts are obliged to prevent them, at a later stage, from doing so9. Courts have the obligation of distinguishing its case from precedent already established in the scenario where the facts in the current case

The End of the West The Once and Future Europe Essay

The End of the West The Once and Future Europe - Essay Example While Greece and Spain among other European nations face financial problems. He associates such problems with wrong perception or view of global power or super power. The book talks of some important political considerations or changes to avoid stop Europe from becoming obsolete. He compares Europe with several continents or nations that happened to have experienced similar political problems and he uses some of the strategies employed by such institutions to recommend on the best policies to revive Europe. He specifically considers the history and the current situations of such nations or government institutions that were once in some political crisis, and the strategies employed to bring some nations back on their feet. The author advises both the Europe’s citizens and political leaders to forget about the outdated superiority thoughts and embrace development oriented perceptions just like China and India among other Eastern nations considered worthless by the West. Such tho ughts or perceptions has seen a decline of Europe’s contributions to the global economy while that of India and China among other nations rise, in other words, Europe’s economy is on a decline trend while that of China and India increases. The book considers ethnicity and lack of democratic and economic cohesion policies as some of the main limitations of Europe’s development. Furthermore, the 2008, global financial crisis in the United States is considered an irreversible decline in the West. The author’s summary is that America is falling and Europe is experiencing both political and economic problems while China is picking up from its pieces and is almost embracing the global economic title, to beat the West. History records that in 1700, India and China’s combined economy was double that of Europe. This was attributed by the fact that the Eastern region ventured in farming and mining among other economic activities that saw the West and Europe depend on China and India for raw materials like wheat, cotton and minerals among others. However, Europe economy became much stronger than that of China and India combined after the first and second phase of globalization. Globalization has enabled Europe to expand its trade links to other nations hence improved economy. Globalization began when Greece among other European nations expanded their trade links with Asian countries like India and China for raw materials and marketing purposes. Europe could transport large volume of sisal, wheat and cotton through ships then later transport fabrics among other end products to Asia for marketing purposes. In the process, the slave trade evolved and Europe economy became stronger than its trading partners. Western nations like United States dominated international economic institutions to become the super power. The West ventured much in military and economic sectors and it is believed that the United States is yet to remain the Super pow er for quite a long time despite being previously colonized by Britain. However, the author calls for changes in Europe and United States political and economic perceptions to remain the super powers. It is believed that combination of China and Israel’s military and economic efforts may out do that of the United States. The author categorically pointed that U.S and Europe

Auditing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Auditing - Assignment Example The research delves on five of the major areas of heightened audit risk of Havelock Europa Plc (Havelock Europa, 2013). The basis for including the accounts as heightened risk involves two factors. The two factors are internal control and inherent risk (Messier, 2011). Certain financial report accounts have higher probabilities of errors or frauds. The current research centres on five such financial report accounts. The accounts are sales, receivables, payables, cash, and inventory. There is an audit risk that there is error or fraud in the  £ 100,778 thousand Revenue amount during 2012. There is a probability that sales completed during January of 2013 were included in the 2012 sales figure. This can be fraudulently done in order to present a falsely higher sales figure, improving the company’s financial report image (Lyn, 2011). Similarly, there is a probability that uncompleted sales transactions were included in the 2012 financial reports (Dauber, 2009). The uncompleted sales amount includes customer’s promise to purchase the company’s products and services that were never completed. Another possibility is that products returned by customers were not recorded as sales revenue reductions (sales returns). Similarly, discounts given to customers who pay early or pay in case are not reflected as deductions from the gross revenue amounts. Further, sales allowances given to customers to satisfy their complaints concerning poor product and service quality may not be deduction from the gross revenue amount. Further, another possibility is recording a Revenue transaction when there is actually no sales transaction started, processed, or completed (Dauber, 2009). Likewise, there is a possibility that the sales amounts were erroneous recorded or fraudulently recorded. In addition, the financial reports may erroneously or fraudulently not include some realized

Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and Essay - 1

Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence - (and one extra option) - Essay Example To me, scientists are the people who really make a difference in the world. Their effort gives rise to products that the whole world makes use of and benefits from. Even if a scientist does not manage to develop a product in his life time, he leaves sufficient information for others so that they may follow him in the same footsteps and ultimately reach the goal that the deceased ever dreamt of. Benjamin W. Lee who has been a great Korean-American physicist is a source of influence for me. Coincidently, he was related to me. He died away a couple of years ago. In the period that urgently preceded his death, he had been working upon renormalization theory. Unfortunately, he could not achieve the goal he wanted to as his life ended before he could do that. Being related to him and accoutered with good scientific comprehension skills, I felt it as my responsibility to take my uncle’s mission further and complete the rest of his work. So I took it as a task. Benjamin was both my friend and tutor in scientific discussions. If there is one way I can show my respect towards him, that is by accomplishing his mission. If I am a physicist today, Benjamin W. Lee is the most dominant reason for that. He was a physical model and realization of my dream personality. I always wanted to be like him. Many of my cousins and brothers used to talk to him generally. I remember that my discussions with Benjamin were always science oriented. I knew how he started over with the renormalization theory, and what steps he had taken in its way thus far. Although I saw it as my duty to carry forward his work, I was not mature enough to do that by the time he died as I was studying. I had to build my academic career first. So I resolved to take higher education in America in Elementary Particle Physics. Since my childhood, I always found interest in Nuclear Physics. It was fundamentally because of Benjamin, that I decided to take Elementary Particle Physics as my major subject given

The End of the West The Once and Future Europe Essay

The End of the West The Once and Future Europe - Essay Example While Greece and Spain among other European nations face financial problems. He associates such problems with wrong perception or view of global power or super power. The book talks of some important political considerations or changes to avoid stop Europe from becoming obsolete. He compares Europe with several continents or nations that happened to have experienced similar political problems and he uses some of the strategies employed by such institutions to recommend on the best policies to revive Europe. He specifically considers the history and the current situations of such nations or government institutions that were once in some political crisis, and the strategies employed to bring some nations back on their feet. The author advises both the Europe’s citizens and political leaders to forget about the outdated superiority thoughts and embrace development oriented perceptions just like China and India among other Eastern nations considered worthless by the West. Such tho ughts or perceptions has seen a decline of Europe’s contributions to the global economy while that of India and China among other nations rise, in other words, Europe’s economy is on a decline trend while that of China and India increases. The book considers ethnicity and lack of democratic and economic cohesion policies as some of the main limitations of Europe’s development. Furthermore, the 2008, global financial crisis in the United States is considered an irreversible decline in the West. The author’s summary is that America is falling and Europe is experiencing both political and economic problems while China is picking up from its pieces and is almost embracing the global economic title, to beat the West. History records that in 1700, India and China’s combined economy was double that of Europe. This was attributed by the fact that the Eastern region ventured in farming and mining among other economic activities that saw the West and Europe depend on China and India for raw materials like wheat, cotton and minerals among others. However, Europe economy became much stronger than that of China and India combined after the first and second phase of globalization. Globalization has enabled Europe to expand its trade links to other nations hence improved economy. Globalization began when Greece among other European nations expanded their trade links with Asian countries like India and China for raw materials and marketing purposes. Europe could transport large volume of sisal, wheat and cotton through ships then later transport fabrics among other end products to Asia for marketing purposes. In the process, the slave trade evolved and Europe economy became stronger than its trading partners. Western nations like United States dominated international economic institutions to become the super power. The West ventured much in military and economic sectors and it is believed that the United States is yet to remain the Super pow er for quite a long time despite being previously colonized by Britain. However, the author calls for changes in Europe and United States political and economic perceptions to remain the super powers. It is believed that combination of China and Israel’s military and economic efforts may out do that of the United States. The author categorically pointed that U.S and Europe

Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and Essay - 1

Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence - (and one extra option) - Essay Example To me, scientists are the people who really make a difference in the world. Their effort gives rise to products that the whole world makes use of and benefits from. Even if a scientist does not manage to develop a product in his life time, he leaves sufficient information for others so that they may follow him in the same footsteps and ultimately reach the goal that the deceased ever dreamt of. Benjamin W. Lee who has been a great Korean-American physicist is a source of influence for me. Coincidently, he was related to me. He died away a couple of years ago. In the period that urgently preceded his death, he had been working upon renormalization theory. Unfortunately, he could not achieve the goal he wanted to as his life ended before he could do that. Being related to him and accoutered with good scientific comprehension skills, I felt it as my responsibility to take my uncle’s mission further and complete the rest of his work. So I took it as a task. Benjamin was both my friend and tutor in scientific discussions. If there is one way I can show my respect towards him, that is by accomplishing his mission. If I am a physicist today, Benjamin W. Lee is the most dominant reason for that. He was a physical model and realization of my dream personality. I always wanted to be like him. Many of my cousins and brothers used to talk to him generally. I remember that my discussions with Benjamin were always science oriented. I knew how he started over with the renormalization theory, and what steps he had taken in its way thus far. Although I saw it as my duty to carry forward his work, I was not mature enough to do that by the time he died as I was studying. I had to build my academic career first. So I resolved to take higher education in America in Elementary Particle Physics. Since my childhood, I always found interest in Nuclear Physics. It was fundamentally because of Benjamin, that I decided to take Elementary Particle Physics as my major subject given

Professional Issues Essay Example for Free

Professional Issues Essay Information technology is defined as the development, installation an implementation of computer systems and applications. It can also be defined as (ITAA definition) the study, design, development, implementation, support or management of computer based systems particularly software applications and hardware. It deals with use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve information securely. There are a number of IT professionals (information technology degree, 2008): database management, networking, engineering (software and hardware), computer specialist and software publisher to name just but a few. My career interest is in database management. This is because with database management you can work in any well established firm anywhere in the world. Any well established firm has databases ranging from finance records, contacts of business partners, employee or product details etc. Good management of such databases can lead to growth of the firm through efficient operations. To be a competent database manager you need to be privy in the following areas in IT: Networking (to allow authorized officers in various offices to access the database) computer specialist (Repair and maintenance of the computer hence maintenance of the database) and software design (To design security based software to permit/ restrict access to database, change of database etc as a way of ensuring constructive use of database). A database manager requires a number of skills in order to function competently. These skills are broadly divided into two groups: technical skills (e. g. Programming, networking etc) and personal skills (e. g. communication skills, interpersonal skills etc). The technical skills /required by a database manager include: Networking, Programming and ability to design and implement system security and other security measures. (Stein, 2007). Networking skills help in linking all the authorized users of the database to the main system to enable them access, update or delete sections of the database as appropriate. Programming language skills helps the database manager to design software some of which can enable the implementation of system security and other security measures. A close analysis of my technical skills reveal the fact that I am exceptionally good in networking but lacking in programming and consequently the implementation of system security and other security measures. On the other hand, some personal skills are mandatory for a competent database manager. These include (Steiln, 2007) organization skills, management skills and surveillance. Other skills include (job database, 2008): communication skills, strategy development skills, conflict management skills not forgetting (Career builders, 2008) strong analytical skills, excellent project management skills, documentation skills, consulting, partnership and critical thinking skills. Last but not least are the initiative and self starting abilities. Considering the above stated personal skills and on close analysis of my personal skills, I believe that I possess all the personal skills listed above except analytical and project management skills. These skills I possess have been internalized into my subconscious mind by constant application. These are the skills that I have learnt both formally and informally. Formally, I have attended training on a number of personal skills such as conflict management, organization, documentation, presentation, communication (both oral and written), and capacity building skills. The capacity building course enabled me to develop initiative and self starting abilities. Informally, I have learnt to be a team player thus acquiring partnership skills and communication styles that achieve results. On the technical arena, as indicated earlier, I am privy to networking but lacking in programming. I acquired my networking skills through a formal training. The skills have helped me a lot especially when I want information from another computer far from me but linked to the one I am presently using. Self appraisal and Personal Development Plan (PDP) are both aimed at establishing the strengths and weaknesses of an individual. The weaknesses can then be remedied and the strengths improved. According to my PDP, I aspire to correct the deficiencies in both technical and personal skills. The personal skills I lack include analytical and project management skills which I intend to correct by signing up courses in both to bridge the gap. The technical skills that I lack also need the same action (taking courses in them) Having remedied all my technical and personal skills’ shortcomings then I shall be contended as a competent database manager should be.

Case Study Workplace Learning Analysis Education Essay

Case Study Workplace Learning Analysis Education Essay In recent years workplace learning has gone from being largely unnoticed to attracting unprecedented interest among employers, researchers and policy makers. This interest can be attributed to globalisation, technological and social changes, economic shifts and organisational developments. The ideas of learning linked to work roles and learning occurring at work are not new yet concepts such as lifelong learning, the learning society and the knowledge economy have contributed to the development of workplace learning as a distinctive field of enquiry (Lee et al., 2004:2). The recognition of workplace learning as a source of sustainable competitive advantage for individuals and organizations alike have also attracted a great deal of interest to ensure that workplace learning is effective. David Boud (1999:5) goes on to assert that in this context: Workplace learning is concerned not only with immediate work competencies, but about future competencies. It is about investment in the general capabilities of employees as well as the specific and technical. And it is about the utilisation of their knowledge and capabilities wherever they might be needed in place and time. Many scholars agree that the workplace provides a rich environment for learning (Hager, 2004; Billet, 2001, Boud, 1999). In the changing context of work and new competence demands there is widespread consensus about the importance of workplaces as significant sites for learning new skills and knowledge. Indeed, the workplace is now even named by some as the Learning Organisation which is defined by Pedler et al (1998) as an organisation which facilitates the learning of all its members and continually transforms itself (Thompson, 2006:2). Workplace learning includes a variety of models like formal, non-formal, informal and incidental. On the contrary to the wide availability of different types of learning, relatively little is known about its effects at individual and/or organisational level (Felstead et al, 2009). The lack of such information may involve a low degree of intentional influence at individual and organisational level to optimise take up and effectiveness of workplace le arning (Felstead et al, 2009). Literature substantiates the claim that workplaces differ in terms of the opportunities they provide for employees to engage in learning activities and personal development (Billett, 2001). Workplaces also differ in terms of their complexity, their culture, their power and the nature of their boundaries with contexts of learning and knowledge production (Clarke, 2005). Research shows that workplace learning is a socially situated process where the context, in terms of its structures, activities and relationships shape the learning environment and learning opportunities in the workplace (Lee et al, 2004). As Marsick and Watkins comment, the creation of a learning environment goes far beyond the design of learning itself. It involves the design of work, work environments, technology, reward systems, structures and policies (1990:44). Awareness and understanding of these factors is a pre-condition to foster an effective workplace learning at organisational level as well as at policy lev el. In fact, Felstead (2009:193) has suggested that there is some evidence in the larger field of human resource development that a focus on the learning of individuals is less significant than a focus on the organisation as a context for learning Increasingly, the importance of developing an appropriate learning environment in order to foster workplace learning is dominating organisational agendas (Clarke, 2005). Such realisation are in evidence in the UK, where the British government through the HM Treasury report Prosperity for all in the global economy -world class skills (2006), has set workplace learning in the wider context of government policy and emphasised the importance of developing effective workplace environments to support workplace learning in particular (HM Treasury 2006, The Leitch Review of skills). Despite ongoing government support for learning in the workplace, findings showed that there remains a significant gap between policy and practice (National guidance research forum). Employers complain that despite the available government funding the costs of involvement outweigh the benefits. Further many UK workplaces are still considered as being low-skill and offering poor opportunities for learning and there are worries that significant shortages of skilled workers will start to appear, unless workplace learning is enhanced (CIPD, survey report 2008). Addressing the issue, findings from The Teacher and Learning Research Programme (TLRP) revealed that for workplace learning to be effective in the UK, various aspects of workplace context need to be considered than merely providing learning opportunities at work. Since learning is influenced by the workplace context, exploring the contextual factors that may influence employees learning is critical to advancing our understanding of how different aspects of the workplace environment are likely to be important in fostering an effective learning climate (Clarke, 2005). It has been acknowledged that workplace provides an environment for learning that either facilitates or inhibits learning, yet few research studies have examined the extent to which the environment serves to enhance learning. A few commentators, notably Billett (2001), Fuller and Unwin (2003), and Ashton (2004), have sought to extend this view and have pointed to workplace structure and context as significant factors within the processes of learning at work (Lee et al, 2004). In particular, Skule (2004) has acknowledged that research on assessing and measuring the contextual factors that promote or impede learning at work is underdeveloped (Skule, 2004). Therefore this study sought to investigate and discuss the influence of contextual factors that have been posited in the literature as influencing workplace learning specifically. This paper shows that by locating workplace learning in context, clearer understandings of the factors influencing the learning environment and processes can be gained. It also shows how the workplace context can provide both barriers to and opportunities for learning. Firstly, different forms of workplace learning are identified. Two opposite paradigms or approaches to understanding the phenomenon of learning at work are discussed. However, the focus of the paper is not on formal programs but on informal/incidental learning which occurs in the workplace. Then the report aims to discuss appropriate context conditions for learning at the workplace. Workplace learning Workplace learning is attracting attention for a number of different reasons. It is often characterised and conceptualised as advantageous to all those involved: there are benefits to employers in raising productivity and profitability, there are benefits to employees in raising employability and earnings and there are benefits to the economy in raising competitiveness and growth. Apparently, workplace learning is a term applied to various contexts and surrounded by different points of view. Thereby generating a myriad of different lenses through which workplace learning is viewed and understood. David Boud (1999:11) argues that, workplace learning is a site of intersecting interests, contested ideas, multiple forms of writing and rapidly evolving practice. There is no consistent and generally accepted definition of workplace learning (Lee et al., 2004). One definition of workplace learning was provided by Marsick and Watkins during the 1990s. Their definition focused on the way individuals learn and respond to changes in the organisational environment that in turn influences the way in which people construct meaning in their personal and shared organisational lives. Fuller and Unwin described workplace learning as learning in, for, and through the workplace (2006:23), suggesting that learning can be embedded in social relations. Beckett (1999), in relation to workplace learning, tends to focus on key HR policy choices and agues that organisations should provide mentoring and coaching and dedicated time to engage in policies for individual strategies such as appraisal, career planning, incentives to learn etc and link workplace learning strategy to evidence of learning (cited in workplace learning: main themes and perspectives). Not only workplace learning is represented by a variety of meanings, the literature is also informed by different views. The literature on workplace learning is rather confusing as it has been viewed from the perspective of a variety of disciplines such as sociology, cognitive psychology, policy studies, management theory, learning theory etc, each reflecting different assumptions and perspectives (Hager, 2004). However, in the field of management theory (HRM), approaches to classifying types of workplace learning demonstrate two main dimensions or approaches to discussions. The dominant perspective has been the traditional perspective of learning. Many researchers work within what Beckett and Hager (2002) have called the standard paradigm of learning which assets that the best learning consists of abstract ideas that are context independent and transparent. Here learning is a process of individual acquisition of knowledge. Hence he goes on to argue that in this paradigm non-transparent learning is a second-rate kind of learning (Hager 2004:244). This is important for studies of workplace learning because it takes us beyond the simplistic and restricted traditions of cognitive and behaviourist psychology and embraces the role of tacit knowledge. This learning opposes the emerging paradigm of learning which emphasise the importance of how people make sense of their experiences at work. Hager (2004:246) argues that rather then being simply a change in the properties of the learnerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the main outcome of learning is the creation of a new set of r elations in an environment. This is why learning is inherently contextual, since what it does is to continually alter the context in which it occurs. Similarly, Sfard (1998) has used the notion of metaphors of learning. The first metaphor -learning as acquisition is based on the premise that knowledge exists independently of the knower but can be acquired and acted upon. The second metaphor -learning as participation emphasises learning happening in relation to others before it is internalised by the individual. Sfard (1998) emphasized that neither metaphor was adequate on its own (Sfard, 1998:44). A different perspective to workplace learning emerged in academic writings in the early nineties, greatly influenced by the work of Lave and Wenger (1991). Situated learning theories draw on concepts such as communities of practice to explore workplace learning. This new perspective emphasises the construction of knowledge within the social and cultural circumstances in which learning occur, namely the social context. Lave and Wenger (1991) who in stressing that learning is at its most meaningful when it is situated showed how researchers should focus on the community of practice rather than on the individual as the unit of analysis. It is argued that workplace learning depends on the extent to which organisations afford employees opportunities to participate and interact with colleagues (Billet, 2001). Even though Lave and Wengers concepts of communities of practice have enjoyed widespread popularity within workplace learning theory, it has been criticised for failing to take accoun t of the role of formal education and not discussing that employees in a workplace may or may not have opportunities to be part of a community of practice (Fuller and Unwin, 2003). The second main dimension of learning relates to the distinctions between formal and informal learning. Formal workplace learning is typically associated with training and education. It is also conceptualised as a standard paradigm of learning or learning by acquisition. According to Marsick and Watkins (1990), formal learning occurs as part of an organised workplace-accredited programme and is embedded within the organisations structure. They argue that formal learning has a finite end point that results in a qualification to undertake specific work activity. In contrast, informal workplace learning can be thought of as a process of learning that takes place in everyday work experience (Marsick and Watkins, 1990). Informal learning involves action and reflection and includes self-directed learning, mentoring, coaching and social interaction. Informal learning is seen to be integrated into daily routines (i.e. experience-based learning), not highly conscious (i.e. implicit learning), influenced by chance and linked to learning of others (learning by communicating) (Lee et al., 2004; Marsick and Watkins, 1990). Indeed research shows that learning by doing is the most effective method of learning. The term informal learning sometimes is used interchangeably with incidental learning. Marsick and Watkins drew distinction between informal and incidental learning. They described informal learning as focusing on experiential forms of learning and incidental learning as focusing on unintentional or unplanned learning (cited in affordances and constraints on informal learning in the workplace). In this context, learning is assumed to be an action arising from experience that may enable the learner to develop and acquire new skills. Incidental learning can be described as a social process and can be conceptualised using Lave and Wenger (1991) notion of a community of practice. Research indicates that about two-thirds of workplace learning may be informal or incidental (Marsick and Watkins, 1990; Skule, 2004). There is also apparent consensus that informal learning is becoming increasingly the preferred option for developing employees. One of the most important issues here is the realisation that much of the knowledge that individuals need and use in organisations is based upon their experience and often cant easily be found in any written form. For example, Billett (2001) conducted several studies of coal miners and workers in industries, concluding that in the informal learning setting of the workplace, effective learning resulted from learners engagement in authentic activities, guided by experts and by interacting with other co-workers. Although learning was unique to each co-worker, it was also shaped by the workplace culture. His study revealed that the quality of learning depended on the kind of activities engaged in, access to support, guidance, and how co-workers constructed their knowledge of different situations. According to Billett (2001:21) ..these factors influence the process of learning and what is learnt. In doing so, they reflect the interdependence between work and learning, providing a basis to consider not only the contributions of the workplace as a learning environment, but also how the workplace might be organised to improve learning Informal learning suggests that the social and cultural environment has the potential to influence how learning occurs. Furthermore few studies have investigated how the sociocultural context has facilitated and constrained informal learning at work. This is a critical area of investigation because of the growing reliance on informal learning as a means of developing the knowledge and skills required in the workplace (Felstead, et al, 2009). Although informal workplace learning is the most prevalent form of learning in organisation, it is also the least well supported (Eraut, 2004). A central argument of this paper is that the workplace can be understood to foster or hinder particular types of learning environment. Drawing on Lave and Wengers (1991) situated learning theory, Fuller and Unwin (2003) developed an expansive-restrictive framework that provides a conceptual and analytical tool for evaluating the quality of learning environments and for analysing an organisations approach to workforce development (Lee et al, 2004). Expansive learning environments include opportunities to engage with multiple communities of practice, gain broad experience across the organisation, learn off and on-the-job and extend job roles. Restrictive environments on the other end are characterised by workplaces with limited opportunities to acquire formal qualifications and much narrower approach to work design (Fuller and Unwin 2003; 2004a). In their study, they identified three participatory dimensions. Firstly opportunities for engaging in multiple communities of practice at and beyond the workplace. Secondly, access to a multidimensional approach to the acquisition of expertise through the organisation of work and job design and finally the opportunity to pursue knowledge-based courses related to work (Clarke, 2005). The findings further revealed that organisations with expansive approach foster a wide range of formal, non-formal and informal approaches to and opportunities for learning whereas a restrictive approach impose many limitations on learning. Within organisations adopting an expansive approach, learning is likely to take place horizontally as well as vertically, and the culture is likely to be less hierarchical. Individual employees are also likely to vary as to whether their approach to learning is expansive or restrictive, and their attitudes may be in harmony with or in opposition to the culture of the organisation in which they work. Fuller and Unwin (2003) and Billett (2001) stress the importance of persons dispositions towards workplace l earning. Those personal dispositions influence what and how an individual learn at work. Fuller and Unwin research was contested by some authors, notably Young (2001) who pointed out that not all workplace learning will take place across teams or in social circumstances. Young further argues that the emphasis that expansive learning places upon transformation could potentially lead to the creation a new learning binary mirroring that of formal/informal learning (Lee et al, 2004, cited in workplace learning main themes and perspectives). This brief introduction has highlighted that learning in the workplace can be formal, informal and incidental and that workplace can foster or hinder particular types of learning environment. The various definitions of workplace learning explain that the all encompassing nature of the term makes it difficult to establish how far there has been a shift in human resource management towards making more effective use of the workplace as a source of learning (Stern Sommerland 1999 cited in workplace learning main themes and perspectives). Arguably the differing dimensions of workplace learning within these literatures examine the influence of the workplace context at different levels of analysis and more importantly influence learning differently (Clarke, 2005). Organisations can play a major role in facilitating their employees learning by providing an environment that is conducive to a positive attitude to learning. Conditions for effective Workplace Learning The effectiveness of learning activities at the workplace is dependant on a variety of factors. Scholars such as Fuller and Unwin (2003), Billett (2001), and Skule (2004) have identified various factors that affect workplace learning, either directly or indirectly in a large number of contexts. Research shows that organisational structure, workplace context and social-cultural conditions at work shape the learning environment and learning opportunities in the workplace (Ashton, 2004). Besides, there are also individual factors such as individual dispositions, psychological learning potential, employment status and educational background which affects individuals learning at work. This section focuses on analysing briefly the workplace context and social-cultural conditions influencing workplace learning. Based upon a review of the literature, a range of factors were identified that were considered aspects of workplace environment for facilitating or constraining workplace learning ou tcomes: (Clarke, 2005:8). Environmental factors The rapid changes in the economic and social conditions means organisations have to constantly adapt in order to survive. This adaption involves the acquisition of new skills and competences at the workplace and job level, thus inevitably influencing the degree and quality of learning in the work context (Skule, 2004). This relationship is empirically confirmed by Skule (2004) who identify a positive correlation between exposure to competition of the organisation and learning-intensity of jobs. Moreover diversification of technologies and advanced information are becoming increasingly pivotal to the success of organisations and professional practices, irrespective of their size or industry sector. This is because information technology not only automates, it also informates à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ information technology can create an environment for thinking and problem solving (Schuck 1996:1999). Thus the successful integration of technology into the organisations functioning can have drama tic impact on the learning opportunities. Organisation structure and culture How motivated individuals are to learn and how encouraged they feel in learning all depend in large part on the organisation, its culture and how it is managed. In short, when it comes to learning, an organisation can facilitate or hinder workplace learning. Ashton (2004) through his empirical studies identifies the following workplace practices that have major influence on workplace learning: (1) Tasks variation in the job. Placing employees into different functions or departments so that they gain skills and knowledge in different contexts and able to shadow other employees. Secondments and job rotation constitutes an appropriate instrument in this respect. (2) Autonomy vs Standardisation of tasks and work processes. Task with a high degree of autonomy facilitates developmental learning, whereas a task with a high degree of standardization facilitates reproductive learning. (3) Cross-functional teams. Many organisations are starting to see the potential of cross-functional teams as an effective means of supporting workplace learning. One benefit of employee working in cross functional team is that knowledge and skills from other team members is transferred directly and formally. (4) Organisational decisions about learning and its impor tance. This underpinned the support available for learner from all levels (Lee at al, 2004). Whilst Ashton empirical study reveals that workplace practices can and do influence learning and access to learning, it also draws attention to the significance of learning culture. It follows that a very effective way of improving workplace learning is to improve the learning culture. This entails making changes to existing working conditions and day-to-day practice of management (Skule, 2004). Skule (2004) identifies, in a quantitative study that managerial beliefs, attitudes and behaviours together with leadership issues (like feedback, support and reward) were the most conducive factors to learning at work. While approaches to management development normally emphasise motivation, productivity and appraisal, relatively little attention is given to creating a climate which promotes learning (Thompson, 2006). More specifically managing should be comparable to coaching, education and skills of managers have to be adapted towards pedagogy and teaching methods to support and structure learning processed in workplaces. To appoint managers and develop them for this new role of facilitating learning would be a highly significant move. According to Schuck (1996:207) The beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours of the manager are at the heart of the environment of inquiry. Within pedagogy for meaning, a manager creates opportunities for learning and becomes an active participant in it. The manager of inquiry encourages people to ask questions and creates an environment in which intellectual play and socially mediated learning are necessary and legitimate components of work. Research shows that the most effective learning cultures are best when a learning culture is expansive (Fuller and Unwin, 2003). Fuller and Unwin study on apprenticeships revealed that quality of learning varied significantly between expansive and restricted firms despite the fact that all were part of the same government scheme. Furthermore, they state that expansive learning environments, which encourage access to diverse forms of participation, were more likely to facilitate integration of personal and organizational development. Billett (2001) shares Fuller and Unwin (2003) view on co-participation but adds that learning is more likely to be effective if there is synergy between the factors and forces that contribute to the learning -e.g workplace affordances (race, gender, personal relations etc), supportive management and learn part of the culture (Clarke, 2005) Socio-cultural context While the organisational context of learning is clearly important, we should also note the significance of the socio-cultural context of learning. Socio-cultural perspective on learning can be traced back to the work of Vygotsky (1978) who suggested that learning cannot be understood without considering the social and cultural context in which learning takes place. Echoing Vygotsky, Lave and Wenger (1991) have conceptualised learning in the workplace as participation in social practice. From this perspective, workplace learning is seen as arising as a result of a complex interaction between knowledge acquisition based within the work and social activities or practices of groups within organisations (Lave Wenger, 1991). Workplace leaning is not isolated from social practice. This is clearly an important consideration in understanding the consequences of learning in workplaces (Billett, 2001). This can be seen to apply in a number of ways: The social circumstances in the learning situation can play a significant part in how learning experiences proceed for example a disable learner may be held back in his or her learning because of disadvantages within the organisations concerned. Moreover, factors such as race, gender can have a significant influence on learning. For example gender stereotyping can shape peoples attitudes and approach to learning (Felstead et al, 2009). Billett (2001) highlighted that workplace learning is social and cultural in nature. In his research on skill formation in coal mines, Billett argued that workplace activities are structured by historical, cultural and situational factors that influence the kind of learning that occurs through work (Clarke, 2005). From the sociocultural perspective, learning is recognised as a social practice where it is highly dependent upon the social situation and cultural context in which it takes place. In order for workplace learning to be effective then, such insights recognise learning not as an isolated individual activity but deeply rooted with networks of social relationships (Clarke, 2005). The point was made earlier that workplace conditions can either foster or hinder workplace learning, but it is not just these factors that can play such pivotal role. There are other barriers within the workplace that hinder workplace learning, these will be discussed next. Workplace learning is not only dependent on workplace conditions but also on personal factors. Smith (2000) has criticised the literature on workplace learning for assuming that all learners in the workplace are generally self-directed and motivated (Clarke, 2005:15). However many employees do no have these skills. Learning readiness should be apparent in individual. Willingness to learn can also be limited if the specific needs and potential benefits are not apparent such as time made available during working hours. Moreover an understanding of the different types of learning strategies used by individuals within organisations is crucial to foster an effective workplace learning. It is often claimed that employee learning is essential to the success of a firm, but the evidence in UK says otherwise. It is important to note that not all employees are provided with the same opportunities for learning in the workplace. Survey from CIPD shows that unskilled workers are the least to receive opportunities for learning, mostly female part time employee. Further findings revealed that three-quarters of organisations reported that their manual staff had no formally appointed mentor and half admitted that they had no structured on the job training. The lack of awareness of learning needs for organisations and the reluctance by managers to guide and provide support to learners may inhibit the outcome of workplace learning. Managers may be reluctant about sharing knowledge for fear of loss of status and power (Lave Wenger 1991). For example in Japanese corporations, where workplace learning is widely accepted, managers roles include training subordinates. Yet these manag ers are secure because promotion is based on seniority, therefore, they will not be displaced. In Australia however industrial affiliation results in particular jobs being undertaken by particular groups of workers (Owen 1995, cited in current issues and agendas in workplace learning). Lack of awareness of learning needs is also connected to uncertainty regarding the incentives to employees. In many UK organisations pay and status are rarely linked to the attainment of qualification and thus provide little incentive to see further training (Owen 1995, cited in current issues and agendas in workplace learning). Conclusion This paper explores and discusses the influence of workplace context on workplace learning specifically. Attempts to characterise workplace learning have generated a myriad of terms and hence, seen as a complex and multifarious concept within the literature (Lee et al, 2004). One of the reasons for the apparent ambiguity is because the term is applied to many different contexts and activities. This paper has also provided an overview of the two dominant perspectives of learning with the emphasis on the participation as an important learning process. To summarise the two perspectives: the standard paradigm of learning and learning as acquisition perspectives are rooted in traditional understandings of learning inspired by cognitive psychology and behaviourism. These perspectives tend to focus primarily on how individuals acquire knowledge within and across different psychological processes and levels. In contrast, the emerging paradigm and learning as participation perspectives understand the process of learning to be collectively generated. These perspectives are rooted in social understandings of learning where this is seen to occur through the social relations and participatory practices of individuals within communities of practice (Lave and Wenger, 2001). The second main dimension in discussion is the distinctions between formal and informal learning. Formal learning i s planned and provided by the organisation in an effort to increase employees effectiveness. Workplace learning can also be informal learning that is unintentional and result from interaction with other employees. Workplace learning is embedded within, takes its shape from and can be impeded or facilitated by the workplace context (Fuller et al, 2003:47). As mentioned in the paper workplace learning is a socially situated process where the context, in terms of its structures, activities and relationships shape the learning environment and learning opportunities in the workplace (Fuller and Unwin, 2003). All learning in the workplace is influenced by a range of factors and is shaped by external as well as internal imperatives. Factors namely environmental factor, organisational structure, workplace culture and social context were discussed. This paper e