Problem Solving Process and Methods

Problem solving Problem solving is a process that is mentally inclined and forms part of a bigger problem solving process that incorporates finding the problem and shaping it to required solutions. Problem solving methods are techniques or skills used to solve life problems. They refer to an individual’s ability to reason both inductively and deductively, as well as be able to apply logic, which can help that individual to infer the problems, analyze and think critically, among others.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Problem Solving Process and Methods specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Methods used The problem is an analysis of the operations of a small sporting goods retail shop. Several approaches we used in problem solving include use of interviews, SWOT analysis and PEST analysis, brainstorming, research in books and journals and review of industry publications. Interviews In solving the problem, we us ed interviews as one method. This involved engaging several store managers in a conversation, which involved asking them questions concerning the types of sporting products they stock. The outcome of the interviews were able to give us data about each store’s product price range, products they carry, services and their targeting customers, their positioning tactics and how they differentiate themselves among others. SWOT analysis Using this method, we were able to evaluate the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats in sporting goods retail shop. SWOT analysis lays emphasis on the business entity as a single unit. The data from interviews were used in summarizing similarities and or differences, advantages and or disadvantages among the stores and competitiveness over one another. PEST analysis Using this analysis, we were able to analyze the macro-environmental framework of the sporting retail shop. PEST analysis measures the business market potential in line with ext ernal factors. This was possible since this analysis bases its focus on political, economic, social and technical views of the analysis. We used the internet for identifying external environment such as local trends, social, economic, political; technological that may affect the small sporting retail store. Observation The other method we used in problem solving is observation. Using this method, we did a study on several sporting retail shops regarding their web appearance, designs and did comparison among the stores. This method enabled us to identify missing contents or links that would further enhance the business’s visibility and its competitive nature. Brainstorming This process involves the input of a group’s creativity whereby the group tries to find solutions to problems by getting idea from each member of the group. Through this process, we were able to engage the input of the instructor when we encountered problems. Through this process, we were able to crea te a range of new ideas and easily solve the problems and it helped in motivating the group members since everyone had his/her input taken into consideration.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Research in books and journals Using this method of problem solving, we were able to learn how the industry’s financial statement looks like, such as, revenue, profit margin, return on asset, inventory turnover, and asset turn over, advantage and Interest burden. This we did by using library database, which includes books and journals. When analyzing the financial statement of the sporting goods retail shop, we used marketing, accounting and finance books. Review of industry publications Using this method in problem solving, we were able to gather information of the sporting retail shop concerning its market share. Particularly, we used the publication of national sporting busine ss for collecting the general data and overview of the sporting retail shop industry in the market. This report on Problem Solving Process and Methods was written and submitted by user Brinley Russell to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Formatting Columns in Microsoft Word

Formatting Columns in Microsoft Word Formatting Columns in Microsoft Word Much like ancient Greek architecture, some forms of writing would fall apart without columns. Newspapers, websites, journals, magazines and newsletters, for example, all present text in neat columns to increase readability and ensure professional presentation. Column formatting in action. If you are writing something along these lines in Microsoft Word, then, you’ll need to know how the column formatting options work. Read on to find out. Column Formatting in Microsoft Word Quick options for basic column formatting. To use the pre-set column options in Microsoft Word, all you need to do is: Select the text that you want to format using the cursor Go to Layout Page Setup Columns on the ribbon Pick the number and style of columns required If you do not select any text first, the column formatting will be applied to the entire document. Custom Column Formatting You can also create custom columns for more control over how text is presented. To do this: Go to Layout Page Setup Columns and click More Columns†¦ In the new window, select: The number per page Whether to use a line between columns The width of each column Which parts of the document to format (selecting This point forward will apply a section break at the cursor position) Additional column options. When you are done, click OK to apply the selected options. This will format all selected text (or the entire document) according to your preferences. Adding a Column Break You can also add a â€Å"column break.† This is useful if you want to end one column part way down and start a new one at the top of the page. To do this, place the cursor where you want a column to end and go to Layout Page Setup Breaks Column. This will add a column break in the place selected. Adding a column break. When to Use Columns Finally, a brief word on when to use this formatting style. It would be unusual in most documents printed at portrait A4 size, such as college essays or business reports. Typically, you would only do so if a style guide requested that you format part or all of a document in this way. However, for anything that will be printed or displayed in a wider format (e.g., on landscape A4 or larger paper), column formatting can make text easier to read by reducing the line length.

PSAT Test Dates 2016 Full Guide

PSAT Test Dates 2016 Full Guide SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Are you planning to take the PSAT in the fall of 2016? This guide will fill you in on the exact test dates, along with some essential tips for achieving a great PSAT score. If you’re a rising junior or taking the PSAT as a younger student, read on to learn how the PSAT will be administered to students nationwide. How Is the PSAT Administered? You don’t get muchchoice when it comes to taking the PSAT. The test is administered across the country on a given date, and the majority of students take it on a weekday at their high school. While you can choose your test dates and testing centers when you sign up for the SAT, you don’t have this same flexibility or chance to register for the PSAT. College Board designates three official testing dates in October or early November. The vast majority of schools use the primary test date, but there are two alternatives in case the main one doesn’t work. So what are the primary and alternative test dates for the PSAT in 2016? What Are the PSAT Test Dates 2016? Here are the 2016 PSAT test dates. Your school will just choose one. Primary PSAT test date: October 19, 2016 (a Wednesday) Alternate PSAT test date: November 2, 2016 (a Wednesday) Saturday PSAT test date: October 15, 2016 (a Saturday) Your high school will register for one of the above test dates (in most cases, the primary test date) and let you know in advance. The alternate test dates, by the way, are only available to accommodate your high school’s schedule. Students can’t choose the alternate or Saturday test date, but instead must take the PSAT on the day that their school chooses. With the PSAT only administered on one day, you might have a concern that comes to mind: what if you’re sick or absent that day? If you're sick on the PSAT test date, don't worry! You will be able to schedule a makeup test. What If You Miss the PSAT? It is possible to make up the PSAT if you miss it. If you’re absent on test day, then you would need to contact the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) by March 1 via a written request. According to NMSC’s website, â€Å"The student or a school official must write to NMSC as soon as possible after the PSAT/NMSQT administration to request information about procedures for entry to NMSC competitions by alternate testing. The earlier NMSC receives the written request, the greater the student’s opportunities for meeting alternate entry requirements. To be considered, a request must be postmarked no later than March 1 following the PSAT/NMSQT administration that was missed. NMSC will provide alternate entry materials including an entry form that requires the signature of a school official.† While you can set up a makeup test if you miss the official PSAT date, should you? That all depends on how much you’d benefit from taking the official test and whether or not you’re aiming for National Merit. If you’re a junior who has been prepping for the test with the goal of achieving distinction or a scholarship, then you should certainly set up a makeup test. If you really want the official College Board testing experience before you sit for the SAT, furthermore, then you should also try to reschedule. If you’re not aiming for National Merit, though, then you don’t necessarily have to make up the PSAT. You might just take a PSAT practice test on your own time under simulated testing conditions, score your test, and prepare for the SAT that way. If you miss the PSAT, then you should think about your academic goals and whether it makes sense for you to schedule another test. Assuming you do make your official test date and take the test, when would you get your PSAT scores back? Before you go on winter break, you get an early present: your PSAT score report! When Do You Get 2016 PSAT Scores? While 2015 test-takers had to wait until January for their PSAT, 2016 test-takers should get theirs back in mid-December. College Board hasn’t gotten any more specific about the PSAT score release date yet, but we’ll update as soon as we’ve got the info. At this point, we know that you should be able to access your PSAT scores online through your College Board account a little less than two months after taking the test. Once you get your PSAT scores, how can you make the most of your score report? Read on to learn how your PSAT resultscan help you make steps toward the future. What Should You Do With Your PSAT Scores? Your PSAT score report is important for two main reasons. First, it gives you feedback about how much you need to prep for the SAT. Second, it tells you if you might qualify for National Merit distinction and scholarships. Let’s take a closer look at both of these important functions of your PSAT score report. Your move (once you get your PSAT results). #1: Use Your PSAT Score Report to Prep for the SAT The PSAT and SAT are very similar tests. They share the same content and question types, and they test the same academic and time management skills. How you do on the PSAT can help you figure out your strengths and weaknesses as a test-taker. After some self-reflection, you can use your performance to plan your best approach to prepping for the SAT. Once you get your PSAT score report, take some time to figure out what it’s telling you. Look at your scores in each section, as well as the more specific subscores that give you insight into certain skill areas and question types. Figure out where you did well and where you could use some more practice. As you study for the SAT, target your weak areas so you can improve for next time. You may need to learn new concepts, cut down on careless errors, speed up your efficiency, or work onall three of these areas. Your PSAT score report gives you valuable insight into what you can do to boost your scores when you eventually take the SAT. Did you manage to reach the tasty carrot that is National Merit? #2: Use Your Score Report to See If You Qualify for National Merit When you’re a junior, you’ll take the PSAT/NMSQT, the latter part of which stands for National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Students who score in the top 3 to 4% achieve the distinction of National Merit Commended Scholar, while students who score in the top 1% are named Semifinalists and may even move on to become Finalists and get scholarship money. Achieving such a high score on the PSAT is no small feat, and if National Merit is in your sights, then you’ll probably spend a good amount of time studying and preparing to take the PSAT. Once you take the test and get your score report, you’ll be able to see whether your hard-earned efforts paid off. Since the PSAT was redesigned in 2015, we don’t yet have the exact state-by-state cutoffs to determine National Merit Semifinalist. We do have our state-by-state estimates based on last year’s data, which you can check out in our National Merit Semifinalist guide. If you’re taking the PSAT in 2016, then you’re in luck! NMSC should release the exact state cutoffs in September, so you’ll be able to go into the test with a clear sense of what you need to achieve (give or take a few points to account for year-to-year fluctuations) to qualify for National Merit distinction and a PSAT scholarship. Want to get a head start on the PSAT NMQST? We have the industry's leading PSAT prep program. Built by Harvard grads and SAT full scorers, the program learns your strengths and weaknesses through advanced statistics, then customizes your prep program to you so that you get the most effective prep possible. Check out our 5-day free trial today: Whether or not you’re aiming for National Merit, you’d benefit from preparing for the PSAT. You’ll brush up on core academic concepts, boost your scores, and get ready for the SAT. Read on for six key study tips to guide your preparation for the PSAT. No time like the present to get started!According to this clock, the present time has something to do with Leo, Aries, andAquarius. Prepping for the PSAT: 6 Key Tips The PSAT is a challenging test, and studying for it requires you to cover a lot of ground. To pace yourself, you should ideally start studying three to four months in advance of your test date. You might start even earlier, depending on where you start and what score you’re hoping to achieve. Some students take it even earlier than 11th grade for extra practice. Whatever age you are, you’ll benefit from following these six study tips as you get ready for the PSAT. #1: Learn All About the Test Your very first step in prepping for the PSAT is simple: learn about the test. Learn how the exam is formatted, how many sections there are, and how much time you get in each. Once you have a sense of its general structure, look more closely at each individual section to see what concepts eachincludes (for example, algebra, yes; advanced calculus, no) and what types of questions it asks. Here are justa few of the questions you should answer as you acquaint yourself with your new friend, the PSAT: How much time do you get per section? How many questions are in each section? What math concepts does it test? What’s the difference between the Math No Calculator and Math with Calculator sections? What grammar rules do you need to know for the Writing section? What are the different question types in the Reading section? How is the PSAT scored? As you learn about the test, take notes on what concepts you feel confident with and which ones need more review. If something looks completely unfamiliar, definitely make a note of it. You might be able to ask a teacher or friendto go over the concept, get a tutor, or learn it on your own with PSAT prep materials. Learning about the PSAT is a key first step as you prepare for test day. You can begin to figure out your strengths and weaknesses and design your own personal study plan. Find a quiet place to take your practice test, free from distractions. #2: Take and Analyze Practice Tests Once you’ve developed a general understanding of the PSAT, you should take a practice test to diagnose your current scoring level. Use an official College Board practice test, sit in a quiet room with no distractions, and time yourself and take breaks just as you would during the real test. When you finish, take the time to calculate your scores. These scores will give you concrete feedback on your performance in each of the four sections. This diagnostic practice test will give you clear insight into your current scoring level and where you need toimprove to boost your scores. #3: Target Your Weak Areas Once you’ve taken and scored your PSAT practice test, you should comb through the questions and take notes on the ones that were easy, confusing, or difficult. Circle any questions that you made a mistake on or were unsure about, and then try to findthe reason behind your uncertainty. Did you not understand what a word problem was asking? Did you make a mistake with your calculations? Did you miss a grammar rule or not know how to solve a linear function? Did you go too fast and make a careless error or find yourself running out of time? Once you root out the reasons behind your mistakes, you can figure out your weaknesses and target them as you study. Fill in any gaps in knowledge and improve your efficiency as a test-taker. Simply taking PSAT practice tests over and over again isn’t going to help you improve much if you don’t take a targeted approach to your studying. Find strategies that help you work fast while still maintaining accuracy. #4: Practice Time Management Strategies Doing well on the PSAT isn’t just about possessing the requisite academic knowledge. It’s also about managing your time efficiently. Taking a timed test can be tough for a lot of people, but it’s a learned skill like any other. In other words, even if you start out feeling frazzled and rushing, you can learn to better manage your time as you practice. There are several time management strategies you can try, and different approaches work for different students. Some people like to skim the reading comprehension questions before they read the passage, for instance, while others start with a quick read-through. As you prepare, try out various strategies, like process of elimination, and hone in on the tactics that best speed up your test-taking. #5: Use High-Quality Practice Materials The PSAT is an idiosyncratic test, unlike most other tests that you’ll take in high school. As you prepare, make sure that your practice materials accurately reflect what you’ll get on test day. Simply understanding how to solve linear function problems, for example, may not get you very far if you’re unfamiliar with what PSAT linear function problems look like. College Board has released two official â€Å"new† PSAT tests. You can also use eight â€Å"old† official PSAT tests; just make sure to ignore the question types, like sentence completions, that are no longer relevant. You can also use books from test prep companies, like Barron’s. They have high quality, realistic material, though no models can be quite as accurate as what comes from the test makers themselves. Finally, you might use new SAT practice materials to prep for the PSAT. The two tests are very similar, with the SAT featuring slightly more advanced material and a somewhat different scoring scale. College Board offers eight free official SAT practice tests, and Khan Academy has free online SAT practice. Whatever you end up using to supplement the free College Board materials, make sure to be selective and choose books or online questions that will give you an accurate sense of the question types you’ll get on test day. Embracing a growth mindset is like a mental magic trick that helps you improve. #6: Embrace Your Growth Mindset This last tip has to do with your psychology, and it’s something that’s useful forall areas of your life, not just prepping for the PSAT. Having a growth mindset means that you believe you can learn and improve. Even if you can't do something now, you believe that you'll be able to do it with enough practice. It’s all too easy for people to give up on their academic goals with statements like, â€Å"I’m not a good test taker† or â€Å"I’m not a math person.† This line of thinking shows a fixed mindset. It suggests that you exist atone static, constant level and will always stay there. You know what you know, and there’s nothing you can do to add to it. Of course, we’re all constantly changing and developing, so this fixed mindset is little more thana defeatist attitude. The PSAT is a tough test, but taking it is a skill like any other. Anyone can improve with practice and effort. Coincidentally, you’ll probably improve even more if you believe you can improve than you would if you’re skeptical of the learning process. A growth mindset doesn’t just help you show up to your books and put in the effort; it also maximizes the effects of yourefforts. Even if you get discouraged along the way, remind yourself that you can always make progress over time. Where you are today is not where you’ll be tomorrow. Remember these key takeaways as you start down the path of PSAT prep. Taking the PSAT: Key Takeaways Most juniors take the PSAT automatically, and younger students may also ask to take it for extra practice. Your high school will choose your PSATdate from three options given by College Board. In all likelihood, you’ll take the PSAT at your high school on a Wednesday in mid-October. After you take the PSAT, you’ll have to wait until mid-December to see your scores. Your scores can give you valuable insight into how you can prepare for the SAT. If you’re a high scorer, then you’ll also find out whether you might have qualified for National Merit distinction. To make the most of the testing experience and meet your goals, you should set aside some time in the weeks and months before to study. The PSAT is an odd test, and doing well on it requires that you first acquaint yourself with its idiosyncrasies. Not only will prepping for the PSAT help you realize your goals, but it will also aid you when you eventually take the SAT. All of this effort, after all, is ultimately going toward your plans to get into college. What’s Next? Are you aiming to get a high PSAT score? This guide has all the study tips you need to know to achieve a perfect 1520. Is your goal to earn National Merit scholarship money? Check out this article to learn about all the steps toward becoming a National Merit Finalist and winning scholarship money for college. Besides National Merit, what's a good score on the PSAT?Check out this guide to learn about the PSAT score range,what makes for a good score on the PSAT, and how you can evaluate how strong your score is. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

HRM Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 10

HRM - Essay Example Steve Jobs once said about the importance of human resource that, â€Å"There is no strong link between innovation and spending on R&D. When IBM was spending at least a 100 times more on R&D, the same time when Apple came up with Big Mac and outclassed its competitors. It is not about the money and it is not about the how many R&D dollars you are spending but is about the people you have, how they are led and how much you are able to get out of them† (Cardy & Leonard, 2011, p. 22-23). Due to the increasing competitive pressures in the business world, businesses now understand the value and importance of their human assets or resources because when other resources that appear on the balance sheet of the company, make things â€Å"possible†, human resource of any organisation make things â€Å"happen† (Torrington, et al., 2007, pp. 96-98). Therefore, the fact is that today, when information technology and globalisation has made it possible for companies to imitate, product, pricing, promotion, distribution, manufacturing, supply chain, sales and other strategies employed by any organisation, a talented, skilled and motivated human resource appears to be providing a much need sustainable competitive advantage (Foot & Hook, 2008, p. 96). Recruitment and Selection First things first, the HR director of the medical institution needs to play close attention on the recruitment and selection process of the nurses because one cannot expect much from the employees if the organisation has failed to put the right people on the right jobs.

Business finance-2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Business finance-2 - Essay Example In order to spread risks, most investors diversify by investing in more than one type of security or portfolio. It should be noted that investors like returns but at the same time dislikes risk and uncertainties (Sharpe, 2007). Though financial market has significant rewards and benefits, it is very complex and very volatile, thus critical analysis is required in risk evaluation so that the expected returns can be validated. Dating back in 1950s an American economist managed to establish the theory of portfolio choice (Markowitz, 1959). This was a tool used by investors during this period to analyze and predict risk in relations to the expected earnings or returns. Markowitz’s theory is the currently renowned Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT). Basically, it is an investment theory that was designed to help in maximizing portfolio returns. This is done relative to the level of portfolio risks meaning that a minimum risk levels correspondents to an equivalent expected return level. Though this theory has been widely applied within the financial sector, a lot of challenges have been pointed on its basic assumptions. However, being an improvement of the traditional investment framework, it provides an advance system for the application of the mathematical model, especially, in finance. Portfolio theory supports asset diversification as a strategy to hedge against any possible market risks that are unique to particular company. As a sophisticated investment decision making tool, it helps investors to estimate, classify, as well as, controls the amount of possible risks that may affected the expected investment returns for the company. The Essentials of Investments /Portfolio theory There are necessities to portfolio or investment theory. These include the quantification of risks and return relationships. The second one is the assumption that compensation should be awarded to investors due to risk assumption. Practically, portfolio theory differs from the traditio nal system of security analysis on the basis that it changes focus from an individual investment characteristics to exploring statistical relationship exhibited within individual securities that represent the entire portfolio group (Sharpe, 2007).. Through mathematical formulation, portfolio theory formulate diversification concepts in the investment with an ultimate goal of carefully selecting viable investment assets with low risks compared to the rest of asset groups. This is intuitively possible since assets can change its values in opposite direction. However, the diversification approach has been recognized to effectively lower risks even when there is no negative correlation in asset returns, but it is more effective in scenarios of a positive correlation. Looking at the technical dimension, portfolio theory models assumes that returns on assets exhibits a normal distribution function (Sharpe, 2007). It also uses standard deviation relative to investment returns to define ris ks. In addition, a portfolio is modeled on the basis of weighted asset combinations in order to have what is referred to as a weighted assets return combination. Based on this view, assets whose returns are not positively correlated are combined, thus helping to reduce variations in the portfolio returns. Another assumption made with regards to portfolio theory is that market is efficient and mainly comprised of rational investors. As far as this discussion is concerned, it should be noted that the main fundamental

Play and Learning in the Early Years

Play and Learning in the Early Years In English preschools, play is an integral part of the curriculum, founded on the belief that children learn through self-initiated free play in an exploratory environment (Hurst, 1997; cited in Curtis, 1998). It was only in the early 1920s that play was linked directly to childrens development. The writings of such early educationists, as Froebel, the Macmillan sisters, Montessori, Steiner, and Susan and Nathan Isaacs, sowed the seeds for play being the basis for early childhood curricula. According to Froebel, play is the work of the child and a part of the educational process (ref). The Plowden Report (CACE, 1967) suggests that play is the principal means of learning in early childhood. In play, children gradually develop concepts of causal relationships, the power to discriminate, to make judgements, to analyze and synthesize, to imagine and formulate (The Plowden Report (CACE, 1967 (p.193). In our society, play serves countless important purposes. It is a means by which children develop their physical, intellectual, emotional and social skills. Much has been written about the definitions, functions and characteristics of play, for example Janet Moyles (1989) writes that Play is undoubtedly a means by which humans and animals explore a variety of experiences in different situations for diverse purposes. (Moyles 1989, p i). There are two conflicting opinions on the value of play, Early Years practitioners and some parents consider that play is the best way for young children to get a concrete basis for later school and life success. While other parents, practitioners and politicians believe that play is a waste of time. (quote). As a practitioner it is important to understand the true value of play and to advocate childrens right to play. This essay analyses the elements of an early years setting that support and encourage learning, comparing it with an alternative early years settings, while evaluating the importance of effective communication with babies and young children. It will also debate the importance of differentiation and inclusion in planning the early years curriculum. In addition the essay will include compare and contrast different settings to see how they relate to known theories of child development. Furthermore plans of play-based activities will be included to show support of the curriculum in the setting. Profile of setting. The school where I am currently in placement is situated within a woodland area surrounded by houses in Colchester, Essex. The school is currently providing education for 4-11 year olds and has approximately one hundred and sixty children on role. The school was originally formed in 1890, but was moved to its current site in the 1970s after a fire broke out. The school is a Church of England school and encourages the children to have a Christian view, with assembles and signs around the school. The feel of the school is a friendly, supportive, family originated environment, which is child focused. The type of child who attends the school is on average a child who will always do their best no matter what their background. The schools community is mixed race but has a high percentage of mainly white British families, the school has 38% free school meals, in August 09 had the highest jobseeker allowance attendance and has a high percentage of families on housing and benefits. The area t hat the school is situated is a renovation area that the Local Council are trying to regenerate. Within the two wards Essex County council and Colchester Borough Council the community have 2.3% rented housing and 10.5% housing. The Local Authority average is 11.85% which has almost double over the years. The school is above Local authority avenge and above national avenge which explains the percentage of free school meals. Lots of the house holds in the community have no formal education and there is a high percentage of children that are involved in social care. There are 4 children on the child protection register, 3 children which are looked after and 1 child on the child in need plan. The school has an equal amount of boys and girls in each class but there are one or two classes that have slightly more boys than girls which can inflict on learning styles and standards. The vision of the school is: We are a welcoming, happy and caring church school, where creativity is encouraged and everyone has confidence in their own abilities. We promote good social skills and participation in the Christian ethos of our school. We value others whatever their background or beliefs and respect our environment. We always aim high and do our best, cherish our friendships and respect everyones right to learn. We ensure that the key skills, vital for a successful future are taught to all of our children. We strive for a bright and wonderful future! (Ref) The school works with a number of organisations in the community. One is Child First, which is the collaborative name for the three Local Delivery Groups (LDG) of the schools in Colchester. The group first emerged out of the desire of Head Teachers in East Colchester, who wanted to improve the life chances for the children in their schools. With the arrival of the Extended Schools Agenda, it was a natural progression to extend the group to include all schools in Colchester. Also lying at the heart of the community is the church, which has a congregation of around 100 people. With differing ages, a variety of backgrounds and Christian experiences, the school finds itself strongly united to the church as a reverend from the parish visits the school regularly. Also the Ormiston Children and Families Trust works with the school to promote the wellbeing of children and young people through projects based around the Eastern Region. The Ormiston Centres work in partnership with Essex County Council, voluntary and statutory organisations, families and communities they are managing the seven Childrens Centres in Colchester. LO1 Compare setting with an alternative analyse the elements of a chosen early years setting that support and encourage learning, comparing it with alternative early year settings. What does the setting do to support and encourage learning? Current setting: The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) applies to children from birth to the end of the reception year. In our school all children join us at the beginning of the school year in which they are five. At present we have an intake of 28 children. Most have been to settings that exist in our community and many have attended the pre-school located on the school campus. At the school we recognise that every child is a competent learner who can be resilient, capable, confident and self assured. We recognise that children develop in individual ways, at varying rates. Childrens attitudes and dispositions to learning are influenced by feedback from others; we use praise and encouragement, as well as celebration/ sharing assemblies and rewards, to encourage children to develop a positive attitude to learning. In the Foundation Stage we set realistic and challenging expectations that meet the needs of our children. We achieve this by planning to meet the needs of boys and girls, children with special educational needs, children who are more able, children with disabilities, children from all social and cultural backgrounds, children of different ethnic groups and those from diverse linguistic backgrounds. We meet the needs of all our children through: Planning opportunities that build upon and extend childrens knowledge, experience and interests, and develop their self-esteem and confidence; Using a wide range of teaching strategies based on childrens learning needs; Providing a wide range of opportunities to motivate and support children and to help them to learn effectively; Providing a safe and supportive learning environment in which the contribution of all children is valued; Using resources which reflect diversity and are free from discrimination and stereotyping; Planning challenging activities for children whose ability and understanding are in advance of their language and communication skills; Monitoring childrens progress and taking action to provide support as necessary. At the school we recognize that the environment plays a key role in supporting and extending the childrens development. This begins by observing the children and assessing their interests, development and learning, before planning challenging but achievable activities and experiences to extend the childrens learning. We make regular assessments of childrens learning and we use this information to ensure that future planning reflects identified needs. Assessment in the EYFS takes several different forms. These provide information which is then combined to inform detailed pictures of whole individuals. The classrooms are organized to allow children to explore and learn securely and safely. There are areas where the children can be active, be quiet and rest. The school has excellent outdoor area provision. This has a positive effect on the childrens development. Being outdoors offers opportunities for doing things in different ways and on different scales than when indoors. It offers the children to explore use their senses and be physically active and exuberant. We plan activities and resources for the children to access outdoors that help the children to develop in all 6 areas of learning. At the school we recognize that children learn and develop in different ways and at different rates. We believe that all our children matter and we give them every opportunity to achieve their best. We do this by taking account of our childrens range of life experiences when planning for their learning. Active learning occurs when children are motivated and interested. Children need to have some independence and control over their learning. As children develop their confidence they learn to make decisions. It provides children with a sense of satisfactions as they take ownership of their learning. Children should be given opportunity to be creative through all areas of learning, not just through the arts. Adults can support childrens thinking and help them to make connections by showing genuine interest, offering encouragement, clarifying ideas and asking open questions. Children can access resources freely and are allowed to move them around the classroom to extend their learning. Different setting: The Montessoris principle insight was that children are not merely small adults they have distinct and different thought processes and desires. What we may call play is a young childs work. The role of the educator is to provide the child with the opportunity to fulfil their desire to learn, both academically and socially. To use the latest educational catch phrases, Montessori education is multi-modality, differentiated instruction. (Ref). The Montessori method is split into five areas. Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, and Cultural. The Practical Life area improves the childs coordination and motor control, developing the pincer grip which is a requirement of writing. The Sensorial area refines the childs senses of the world around them, again preparing for language, and also for maths, serializing length and other physical characteristics. The Mathematics area provides numerical concepts in concrete form, using beads, cards, and spindles. The Language area teaches letters, then their phonetic sounds, and then builds words. The Cultural area extends the childs understanding beyond the classroom, teaching science, geography, botany, zoology and history. The teachers at a Montessori school observe their children in great detail asking the questions, what does this child understand? What is the next concept this child needs to learn? Obviously, a Montessori classroom will not look like a normal classroom. Rarely, if ever, will you find the whole class sitting with their books out looking at the teacher show them how to fill in a worksheet. Instead you will see children, some in groups, some by themselves, working on different concepts, and the teacher sitting with a small group of children, usually on the floor around a mat. Some people talk about the lack of structure in a Montessori Classroom. They hear the word freedom and think chaos or free for all. They seem to think that if all children are not doing the exact same thing at the exact same time that they cant possibly be working or that they will be working only on the things that they want and their education will be lopsided. Children will be given a work plan or a contract and will need to complete an array of educational activities just like in a more traditional classroom. The main difference being that the activities will be at each childs maximum plane of development, will be presented and practiced in a way that the child understands, and the child will have the freedom to choose which he/she does first. LO2 Communication Evaluate the importance of effective communication with babies and young children. Communication is a complex and important skill that is fundamental to human relationships, because humans appear primed to communicate from birth and we often underestimate the skills that must be developed if babies and children are to become sociable and effective communicators. The play experiences children need in order to become skilful communicators are those that encourage them to want to communicate with others and include not only verbal but also non-verbal responses such as movement of their whole body. LO3 Differentiation Differentiation is the recognition of and commitment to plan for student differences. A differentiated classroom provides different avenues to acquire content, to process or make sense of information and ideas, and to develop products. Differentiation can be referred to as an educational philosophy that requires teachers to modify their learning, teaching and assessment whilst adjusting the curriculum to the needs of children with SEN rather than expecting pupils to fit the existing curriculum (Cole 2008 cited in Rogers, 2007). The history of differentiation in education can be linked to two influential psychologists. Vygotsky proposed that learning can be mediated through the intervention of others. This recognises that by having knowledge of what a child already knows should inform the next stage of learning and what interventions are necessary to enable successful learning. Gardner (1993) proposed a theory of multiple intelligences in which people have different intelligences and learn in many different ways. Gardner conceived that schools should therefore offer individual-centred education (Florian et al, 2006 cited in Humphreys and Lewis 2008b) in which learning is tailored to the childs individual needs. Lo4 2 different early year curricula. The idea behind Forest Schools is that it is a long term sustainable approach to outdoor play and learning. Its about providing children with holistic development; it looks at every area in terms of their physical development, intellectual development and cognitive skills, also looking at their linguistic and language, both verbal and non-verbal. Forest Schools also looks at their emotional, social development and spiritual development. Whats interesting about the culture in some Scandinavian countries is being in and out doors are a part of how the family and culture works. But in Britain children are getting more and more isolated from the natural world. Forest Schools is very much about giving children the opportunity to learn in and from nature. Forest Schools is also about free play, its about self directed learning but its also about allowing the children to develop freedom and choice in order to be able to become competent and effective adults. In Every Chid Matters it states that every child should make an equal contribution. (Ref). The only way that children can do this is if they have sound self-esteem and sound emotional well-being and sound social skills and function in as many social situations as they choose. Forest Schools is about allowing children given their developmental dependant age the ability to be able to achieve social comfort. Forest Schools is an inspirational process that allows children to access the outdoor space in order to grow and develop into successful, happy rounded individuals. There is a misconception that Forest Schools is for Early Years; some of the most successful projects have been with older young people, adults with mental health problems and children in secondary education. (Ref). The .about allowing children and young people to grow with a sense of value of who they are and giving a positive contribution. Its all about using nature as the teacher as opposed to being adult lead. LO5 Activity Plans and Evaluation. Plan (see appendix .), Rationale behind choice of activity and Learning Objective. This activity was chosen as the reception class were looking at the Handa Surprise book and focusing on healthy foods. The day the activity was carried out a new student was present with his mother which added extra pressure for all the professionals. The learning environment offered opportunities for the children to experience tasting different fruits as the kitchen area was adjacent to the table in which the activity was carried out. It setting also had a large copy of the story so all the children were able to see the story (for Communication, Language and Literacy) and had the provisions to create the masks (Creative Development). I thought the topic would lend itself to the next days topic of healthy lunchboxes, which the whole school were focusing on. I chose to focus on any existing knowledge the children may have of different fruits and try and extend their understanding of way fruits are good for us. This leads into Early Learning Goal () of ..'(QCA, 2000). My main learning objective, therefore, was to introduce the children to new fruits and tastes, using language and listening to each other to find out what each child thought, in an accessible and enjoyable environment, so to encourage respect for each others views and turn taking. What happened? The week before carrying out the activity, i prepared the resources needed in school and discussed the other activities that my fellow practitioners would carry out. This involved printing, cutting and laminating the necessary pictures and masks. Also finding all the different fruits that were in the story. One fruit in particular i was unable to find but i improvised with a fruit drink that was made from the fruit so at least the children were able to taste the favour. I carried out this activity with a mixed ability group of 9 children. I began by asking the children to wash their hands as they were going to be eating fruit. When all the children were back in their seats, i gave each of them a bowl and a cup. I asked the children if they could remember the fruits in the story of Hands Surprise which was read earlier. The children seemed to have a positive attitude about being able to remember. With a small copy of the book i asked the children which was the first fruit that the monkey took out of Handas basket. When answered in cut the banana in pieces and gave each child a piece and asked questions such as what does the banana taste like? How does it feel? Do you like the banana? The children gave mostly good descriptions of the fruit and used appropriate vocabulary such as creamy, slippery and lovely. I carried out the same routine of cutting the fruit into sections and passing a section to each child and asking them to describe what it tasted l ike and how it felt and whether they enjoyed it. With the Guava fruit which was the fruit i could not purchase i informed the children of the situation and showed them the picture of the fruit on the carton of juice. I gave each child a taste and asked their option, the overall option was that the fruit tasted delicious but one child said that they didnt like it. The most interesting discussion came when i asked the children what they thought the passion fruit would look like inside, one child said that it might look like an orange, the same child that said the banana was creamy (extension). Overall most of the children enjoyed the fruit tasting apart from one (standard) child who kept giving negative reactions to the fruit saying that he doesnt eat fruit at home. I was happy that a least he tried some which i gave great encouragement to. While the fruit was being eaten i passed around picture cards of the fruit and asked each child in turn to pronounce the name of the fruit after me, most children had no problems with the pronunciations but one child struggled with avocado. I encouraged each child to have a little taste of each fruit and if they didnt like it then they didnt have to eat it and well done for trying was always encouraged. The extension child suggested that trying different fruits was good for us, as fruit was good for us. Which then lead a child that was refusing to try a certain fruit, tried it? At one point the dismissive child asked if we were finished and could go and play. Once all the children had tried all the fruit and we had discussed them and i asked the final question which was everyone favourite and their least favourite, the overall result being orange best, avocado worst. I explained that the children could go put their bowls in the sinks and wash their hands and then go and play. Evaluation. I believe this activity resulted in all the children achieving the main learning objective of introducing the children to new fruits and tastes, using language and listening to each other to find out what each child thought and to encourage respect for each others views and turn taking. The idea that the childrens peer could influence the decision of another child .. An effective learning environment does not leave children entirely to their own devices, but builds on what they can already do and challenges them to try new things. The role of the practitioner is vital in this process and sits within the social constructivist approach to learning. This theory was popularised by Vygotsky (1978, in Smith, 1999), who identified the zone of proximal development, (ZPD) as being a reason why childrens learning can be helped by others. Smith (1999) explained: The ZPD is the distance between the childs developmental level and his or her potential level of development under the guidance of adults or more competent peers (Smith, 1999: 429). As this was a hands on activity, the children were taking an active part in their own learning progress. It was Piaget (1966, in Smith, 1999) who first postulated that the child is a lone scientist, processing information and constructing meaning through encounters with their world. Most of the children focused their attention to the fruits they enjoyed using positive language and engaging in the ability to use words to describe what something tasted like or felt. One child tried to extend the activity to see who the fruit sounded when bounced on the table saying the orange sounded like a ball, this then encouraged the children to continue testing the sounds of fruit by knocking on them. The (extension) child asked if there was nothing in the fruit would it sound the same? The relative success of this activity highlighted that children of this age learn best through concrete experiences. When working with children of this age group it is preferable to adopt teaching strategies which allow for plenty of practical activities and exploration. The fact that one child lost interest in the activity, implies that I might need to develop this activity in some way to keep the attention of the less able or enthusiastic children. This was particularly notice when asking some children to use descriptive words to describe the fruit, as some children just repeated the word that their peer before them used. The language of one child was not as developed as the other children in the group, and this excluded them from full participation. On reflection, a different teaching strategy could have been employed to involve them more fully into the activity. It could be that they were more of a kinaesthetic learner than the others, as he keep looking at the children playing, so maybe using an activity that involved movement may have kept his attention. Also the activity was extended longer than anticipated as i had the cut each individual fruit into segments. If this activity was done again in the future maybe cutting the fruit into segments before the activity took place would be a more successful approach. As a result of this evaluation, i would have changed my plan to include more opportunities for the children to be involved in the activity in a more physical way, perhaps by using safety acceptable knives the children could help me cut the fruit. This may help some of the children with their fine motor skills as well. Also another way of engaging less able children might include asking them to participate in the preparation of the resources, maybe by asking them to bring their favourite fruit from the story in so they feel they have a more personal involvement. Finally, the only thing I would change would be to ask the children to put on aprons, as it got very messy, including me, as i too got very messy. Conclusion In conclusion recently there has begun to be a realization in the UK that play is important. There has been a surge of initiatives funded by government , such as Arts Council projects on creativity in schools and communities, the publication of Excellence and Enjoyment by the National Primary Strategy (DfES, 2003). This is putting a major emphasis on the importance of embedding the Foundation Stage and the Birth to Three Matters Framework in the work of local authorities across the maintained, voluntary and private sectors. Increasingly, research findings indicate the importance of the first years of education. Childrens ability to use spoken and written language fluently and with confidence and for a range of purposes enables them to access at an early age what education has to offer. The adults working in early years settings and classrooms have both the opportunity and responsibility to affect the future learning of their pupils in a far reaching and powerful way. Play is, it seems, about the universe and everything. It often has to function in a hostile environment, but when it is encouraged, supported and extended, it makes a major contribution to, and sophisticated impact on the development of individuals and humanity as a whole.

Market Segmentation of Kitkat

Nestle KitKat Cross-platform mobile app The Challenge Nestle is one of the world’s leading FMCG manufacturers. Kit Kat is Nestle’s leading confectionary brand and the UK’s favourite chocolate biscuit bar. Our Strategy Our aim was to create an extension to Kit Kat’s YouTube channel for the smart phone user. The brief was to create an experience which utilises the unique functionality that mobile provides, and Users are asked what mood they are in, and a selection of videos is presented to them.The topics range from a tutorial on how to body pop, or a clip of a Kit Kat advert from the archive. At the end of the video the user is returned to the app to be able to view more inspiring videos and share with friends. Imano were asked to contribute to Kit Kat’s Shake & Break campaign, created by Skive, by delivering an app to run alongside their existing YouTube channel. The commissioned app was for both Android and iPhone platforms. ncourage the campaign t o ‘go social’ through all digital channels. The goal of the Shake & Break app was to allow users to make the most out of their break times, in a fun way with Kit Kat. Our strategy was to create a seamless environment where they could engage with the selection of YouTube video choice to compliment the campaign. The Results Through an agile working approach the tight project deadlines were met and the app is now live in two Android market places and the app Store.As retained Nestle agencies Imano and Skive have successfully worked together to push boundaries and evolve the mobile/social media marketing strategy that the brand will be adopting for the foreseeable future. For further information contact: Imano plc Tel: UK: 020 7632 6930 | www. imano. com | [email  protected] com acrossair Tel: UK: 020 7632 6930 | www. acrossair. com