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THE CERTIFICATE OF ADMINISTRATION TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY (CATTH) CERTIFICATE OF ADMINISTRATION IN TRAVEL, TOURISM & HOSPITALITY (CATTH) 1. Philosophy The Certificate in administration in Travel Tourism and Hospitality is designed to develop young Namibians to effectively manage the countries tourism resources to ensure sustained growth of the industry. The course appeals to staff already working in the field and those aspiring to join the industry as employees or operators to its relevance and practical approach.The course prepares students for a role that will ensure adequate human resource to manage the growing tourism industry in Namibia and abroad. The course will give the student the necessary skills to work or operate in a very demanding environment. It will enable graduates to advance to the Higher Certificate in Travel Tourism and Hospitality or gain meaningful employment, start own operation or act as a tourism consultant. 2. Programme Outcomes By the time the graduat e finishes the Certificate of Administration, he/she will be equipped with knowledge, skills and requisite attitude to effectively operate to work in the tourism industry. . Objectives (Purpose) ? By the end of the course, the student will be expected to appreciate tourism industry and the context in which it operates. ? To get the student to understand concepts in Travel Tourism and Hospitality. ? Understand the role of marketing and communication in travel tourism and hospitality. ? To give students the theory and practice of administration and accounting systems in travel tourism and hospitality. ? Appreciation of the role of government in managing tourism resources. 4. Enrolment Standards (Admission Requirements):To be registered for any of the courses, candidates must: Hold HIGCSE senior certificate in four subjects with 1- 4 symbols OR Hold a Grade 12 senior certificate (IGCSE) with a minimum of C symbol in English Language, a pass in Mathematics and a C symbol in three other subjects totaling twenty five points or more OR Enter through flexible learning path – mature age/prior learning with five years relevant experience in various fields of world of work. Apart from a valid IGCSE 22 certificate, applicants must also have attained a minimum of 25 points on the IUM evaluation scale.Please note that achievement of these requirements will not automatically guarantee a place on the degree course, it will be subject to a successful interview/aptitude test (as required) and availability of places. OR The equivalent of any of the above as determined by Senate. 5. Teaching Methods The students will be expected to be responsible for their own learning, nobody can learn for somebody else. Emphasis will be placed upon the need for a student to read extensively in each of the subjects. The role of the lecturer is to stimulate learning and to support and guide that process.Programmed reading will support these endeavours. A wide range of teaching methods will be employed by lecturers from traditional lectures through to small decision-making groups, as well as the use of training films and videos, and advanced business simulations. 6. Learning Standards Class contributions by the students will be encouraged and the extent to which these contributions conform to the teachings of the Certificate of Administration in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality will be an important facet in the success of the student.Individual assignments will be set by the lecturer every two weeks and should usually exceed the standard of the exam. Like the group assignments these will normally take the form of a duplicated handout, that should be returned with the finished assignment. The student will be expected to carry these out without help. It is in the student’s interest to carry out these tests with integrity. They will be marked anonymously by their fellow students against a given marking plan.The tutors will use these results to monitor student progr ess and to make decisions as to whether the student is ready to sit exams when the time comes. (Students may not sit exams unless the lecturer feels he or she has a good chance of succeeding). 7. Credits System As per international acceptable formula, one (1) credit equates ten (10) notion hours (learning). These hours do not include the hours spent by a student in a class. A first year degree IUM student will, therefore, attract one hundred (100) credits. 8. Course Outline Certificate of Administration (100 Credits) ?Mathematics for Business 33 ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Spoken and Business English Computer Literacy Professional Presentations Report Writing Namibian and Regional Economics Introduction to Business Accounting I Business Communications I Introduction to Travel, Tourism and Hospitality 9. Assessment & Evaluation The assessment system comprises two components: ? Continuous Assessment (CA) attracts 40% of the final grade ? Formal Exams (FE) attracts 60% of the final grade. The ev aluation system comprises two components: ? Students will be asked to complete evaluation sheets for each subject studied ?An external evaluator will evaluate the course in terms of course content, teaching methods, course resources and assessments. 10. Articulation IUM subjects articulate from Certificate/Diploma to Certificate/Diploma as per the statement in course contents Faculty will decide if and how course work from qualifications from other institutions will articulate with IUM courses. Appeals may be submitted to Senate 11. Credit Transfer Internal students that apply for advanced standing or credit accumulation or credit transfer will have their cases considered by the relevant faculty.Students from outside IUM will have their cases considered by the relevant faculty. Credit from outside institutions may be awarded up to fifty percent of total credits for any qualification conducted by IUM. Appeals may be submitted to Senate 44 ENG – 111- Professional Presentation N QF Level 5 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Credits 10 Demonstrate good communication skills: Speech, Listening, written. Apply appropriate visuals in business communication. Employ investigative and interview skills in business situations. Course Content ? Analysing the importance of good speech and associated characteristics in business. Appreciating the values of listening and acquiring useful techniques to make a better listener. ? Learning how professional speeches and presentations are planned and delivered. ? Understanding how to use the telephone effectively and efficiently. ? Learning about the reasons for meetings and interviews taking place in business organisations. ? Appreciating the steps that need to take place for planning successful meetings and interviews. ? Studying different documents required for formal meetings. ? Analysing the types of interviews that take place and the types of questions asked. Learning how to prepare advertisements, job descriptions and press releases . ? Creating advertisements, job descriptions and press releases. ? Appreciating the different types of visual aid equipment that can be used in business communication. ? Studying the use of visuals in business communication. ? Considering how written communication can be enhanced through the use of colour and lettering styles. ENG – 112 – Spoken Business English NQF Level 5 Credits 10 Module Outcomes: ? Explain linguistics concepts and principles. ? Describe communication. ? Explain the purpose and role of seminars.Course Content Linguistics: ? Applied Linguistics ? Pronunciation ? Enunciation ? Grammar 55 Tutorials ? Selection and formulation of tapes ? Effective deliberation tapes ? SWOT Analysis Perception and Application ? ? ? Seminars ? ? ? Purpose of seminars Acceptable conduct in a seminar Seminar presentation How to illustrate communication Barriers to effective communication How to achieve success in communicated speech MTH – 132 – Mathematics f or Business NQF Level 5 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Credits 10 Calculate basic mathematical models and algebraic computations.Apply BODMAS acronym and its full application. Calculate basic business and financial transactions. Course Content ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Applying the four rules of whole numbers, fractions and decimals Multiplying and dividing negative numbers Comparing numbers using ratios, proportions and percentages. Obtaining values for simple financial transactions involving purchases, wages, taxation, discounts. Converting foreign currencies Making calculations involving roots and powers Evaluating terms involving a sequence of operations and use of brackets.Approximating data using rounding and significant figures. Solving linear and simple simultaneous equations Determine the equations of a straight line through two points. Determining the gradient and intercept of a straight line Drawing charts and diagrams from tabular data Applying general rule and principles of graphical constructions including axes, choice of scale and zero. Identifying points of importance e. g. maximum, minimum and break-even. Calculating and interpreting summary statistics, namely measures of location 66 mean, mode, median) and measures of dispersion (range, interquartile range and standard deviation) ? Applying the laws of probability to mutually exclusive, independent and dependent events. ENG – 113 – Report Writing NQF Level 5 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Distinguish and employ various reports. Demonstrate and use clear and concise language. Practice proper report writing skills. Credits 10 Course Content Nature and Purpose of Reports ? ? ? Necessity of reports Formats for writing reports Use of clear and concise language Informative Reports ? ? ?Purpose Situations where used Case studies Analytical reports ? ? ? Purpose Situations where used Case studies Practical Report Writing ? ? ? ? Formulation of Assignment Report presentation Assessment Correspondenc e ? ? ? ? Letters Memos Faxes Orderly in expression of requested opinion 77 Field Activity ? ? Practical like report writing Assessment and evaluation CSE – 135 – Computer Literacy NQF Level 5 Module Outcomes: ? ? Credits 10 Demonstrate computer literacy skills. Illustrate Information Technology appreciation in problem solving. Course Content Introduction to Microcomputers ?Overview of the development of computers ? Multi-user computers – mainframes and minicomputers, personal computers and their configuration. ? Essential PC Hardware, peripherals and software. ? Introduction to the main types of Software. ? Binary codes and the microprocessor ? Types of PCs – their uses and strength ? Introduction to Operating Systems (DOS & Windows) ? Information processing – online, offline processing, real-time, batch processing, single tasking and multitasking ? Current IT issues – open & proprietary systems and compatibility, information systems securi ty. Data communications – Introduction to Networks, central and distributed computing, wide area and global networks. Microsoft Windows ? Navigating the desktop, customising the desktop, file and folder management, installing and de-installing a program ? Logging onto an internet Service Provider or Online service provider, managing the mailbox, email security, using a browser and search engine effectively and downloading pages, refining searches Microsoft Word ? Open a blank document and type text, recognise the toolbars, Ruler Bar, Scroll Bar, Status Bar ? Spell checking, search and replace, thesaurus ?Page set-up, styles and general Formatting 88 ? Creating a tab set, Columns, Tables and Borders/Shading/Page ? Use word Processor Wizard to create a document such as a fax, an invitation or a CV ? Print preview and printing Microsoft Excel ? Start a blank spreadsheet and navigate between workbooks and sheets ? Enter data, change column widths and row heights, Formatting value s, Calculating, creating and understanding formulae, using Math and statistical functions ? Creating and editing charts ? Auto Form Introduction to Presentations ? Create and present a simple show. Keyboarding ?Introduction to the keyboard and basic typing skills ? Introduction to touch typing to be able to acquire at least 35wpm. FIN – 111 – Namibian and Regional Economics NQF Level 5 Credits 10 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Demonstrate basic economics concepts and principles. Describe economic problems and corresponding economic systems. Explain Namibia’s economic competitive edge over SADC countries. Course Content ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Analysing the Namibian economic structure (namely, Mining, Agriculture, Fishing, Tourism) infrastructure (Transport and Telecommunication), Banking, Insurance.Analysing the Namibian government structure namely Legislation, Judiciary and Executive. Understanding government development plans of government (NDP 1 & NDP 2) Describing the economi es of Southern Africa (Angola, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Lesotho, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo) Examining Namibia’s competitiveness in the region and beyond A case study of Namibia’s industrial policy and the export processing zone initiative in particular.Explaining Namibia’s stake in SACU, SADC, COMESA, WTO, and AGOA. 99 SBM – 115 – Introduction to Business I NQF Level 5 Credits 10 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Distinguish between different types of business in public and private sectors. Compare the processes and strategies used by businesses. Analyse business financials. Course Content ? ? ? ? ? ? ? To investigate the purpose and nature of business, looking at the different types of organisations within the Public and Private Sector. Including the activity, size, advantages and disadvantages of a business.To describe the hierarchy and the external influences of both Private and Public Sector companies including conducting a PEST analysis. Researching the services available to organisations including financial services, consultancy services and local government funding. Demonstrate an understanding of how to market a business taking into account the location, marketing mix, product lifecycle, customer needs and relating this to the overall business objective. Demonstrate knowledge of the production processes, quality, stock control and the factors internal and external that affect production within an organisation.Human resource management within a business, to include recruiting, payroll, training and development of employees and health and safety issues. Business finance; being able to demonstrate an understanding of balance sheets and profit and loss accounts within a Public and Private sector organisation. FIN – 1129 – Accounting I NQF Level 5 Credits 10 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? ? Demonstrate basic appreciation of accounting theory and practice. Calculate and use appropriate costing methods to specific business transactions.Practice and illustrate preparation of books of accounts. Interpret financial statements. Course Content ? ? Prepare a trading, profit and loss account, balance sheet and cash flow report for sole trader, partnerships and limited liability companies, after taking into account a normal range of adjustment to the trial balance necessary for such preparation. Recognise and apply appropriate accounting conventions to a range of transactions within the context of the accounting regulatory requirements. 10 10 ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?Explain and describe the appropriate of account for different types of accounting transactions and be able to prepare a trial balance from these books of account. To prepare and maintain a range of control accounts appropriate to the books of account. To prepare journal entries and deal with the treatment of suspense account items. Operate, calculate and interpret a range of basic fina ncial ratios appropriate to a set of financial statements, particularly in the key areas of profitability, solvency liquidity, asset utilization and investment ratios.Employ the basic principles of cost behaviour cost ascertainment and to be able to: Classify direct overhead allocation summary Prepare an indirect overhead allocation summary Calculate overhead recovery rates by a variety of techniques and to apply these for the purpose of cost compilation. Explain the difference between fixed and variable costs. Calculate the difference between fixed and variable costs. Calculate break-even points of activity and prepare break-even charts. Appreciate and explain the limitations of break-even analysis.Understanding the basic principles of different costing techniques and to be able to: Define the different costing techniques Explain and understand the differences between each technique, and Calculate cost using any of the techniques. Understand the basic principles of capital investme nt appraisal and be able to calculate and interpret figures using the pay back, accounting rate of return or discounted cash flow methods of investment appraisal. BAN – 1117 – Business Communication I NQF Level 5 Credits 10Module Outcomes: ? Illustrate the purpose of Business Communication. ? Explain the communication process using the Communication Theory. ? Demonstrate the communication process in Business Communication. ? Describe the various tools used in Business Communication. Course Content ? ? ? How to write business correspondence including letters, memos and advertisements. The use of business English in written form looking at spelling, paragraphs, presentation of information and appropriate business language used.To learn and understand the basic principals of communication, including learning how to overcome barriers of communication, appropriate channels of communication, the purpose of communication and presentation of self when communicating. 11 11 ? ? To be able to communicate information in the form of graphs, this also includes identifying trends from the data. To learn and understand the different types of technology used within communication and the effects of it on business and the organisation.TTH – 1217 – Intro to Travel, Tourism and Hospitality NQF Level 5 Credits 10 Module Outcomes: ? ? ? Recognize the importance of Travel, Tourism and Hospitality in relation to National Economic Development. Describe and explain the contribution of Travel, Tourism and Hospitality to the National Gross Domestic Product. Comprehend the economic, social/cultural and environmental impacts of Travel, Tourism and Hospitality. Course Content ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? The interrelationship and interdependence between leisure, recreation, travel and tourism.The significance of economic, social, cultural, political and environment trends of patterns of leisure and tourism. The characteristics of different types of tourists and their m otivational behaviour. The supply and demand of tourist travel. The dimensions of the travel system in relation to tourism The main motivational factors that influence the tourist’s choice of travel. Evolution of international travel and transport developments that have affected tourism. The relationship between the development of the inclusive package tour and mass tourism.The basic requirement to development of a tourism destination. The roles of, and the relationships between, the main intermediaries within a simple tour distribution system. Government’s interest and involvement with main public tourism organization at both national and international levels. Future trends within the travel and tourism sectors. Upon successful completion of this course, the student is awarded a Certificate of Administration in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality. 12 12

Government and Ethics Essay

Ethics is the study of what is right and what is wrong. In our daily lives were continuously forced to make simple and important decisions. Ethics help to guide people’s behavior and assist them in coming to conclusions. There is not an exact rule to what is morally correct because some people view things differently but by having a general since of what is ethically appropriate it can help a society function in a civilized manner. The role of government in ethics, and the role of ethics in government are very important concepts in forming that civilized society. In a society there are laws and there are ethics; however there is a considerable difference between the two you cannot have one without the other. Laws are what the government determines right and wrong. Ethics are what the majority of society determines as appropriate. The laws of a society can only state what a person can and cannot do. But they do not cover the in between. Ethics cover the gray areas and indicate what is accepted in a society. Ethics are personal laws they help people make the choice between what is morally right and wrong. Morals help to make a society more civilized and stable. Even though there is a strong distinction between ethics and laws you cannot have one without the other. Laws are not possible without ethics. In the textbook Thinking Critical about Ethical Issues author Ruggiero states, â€Å"The only way for a law to be enacted or repealed is for one or more people to make a decision about right and wrong. That has always been true, whether the lawmaker was the chieftain of a nomadic band or tribe, a king or queen, or a group of elected officials† (Ruggerio, 2008). To determine what is unlawful lawmakers need determine what is moral or immoral. The majority of people in a society determine ethical values. But the idea of majority rule can be very dangerous when determining what is ethically correct. In many cases the majority does not specifically base their decision based on what is morally right or wrong. So in return the majority’s choice is not always perfect, and in many cases can be very ignorant. In a lot of occasions the majority rule often equals mob rule. People often forget to determine what is morally sound for the masses and instead determine what is right for them. Majority rule can also influence lawmakers. Laws are determined by what the masses determine as right or wrong. A good example of when majority rule was not necessarily right is that of slavery. The greater part of society believed that slavery was ethical, and that above all the right to do. And because people thought slavery was right laws portrayed these thoughts. Even though slavery hurt the minority the laws were still in place. Majority rules can infringe on an individuals rights. In many instances the idea of the majority rule needs to be altered to guarantee that the rights of the minority are still being represented. Everyone has obligations whether it is to our family, friends, or employer. Just like individuals the government has obligations to the people that it is serving. In the textbook Thinking Critically about Ethical Issues author Ryan Ruggerio defines obligations as, â€Å"restrictions on our behavior, demands to do something or to avoid doing it† (Ruggerio, 2008). The government is obligated to be fair and just. The laws that are being determined by the officials need to be sure that they are not infringing on others rights. Besides the government as a whole the elected officials have a personal obligation to the citizens that they serve. They need to be sure that they are behaving appropriately. That their decisions are made based on what is good for the community or country that they are making decisions for. Voters put their trust into these individuals, they vote for them based on the thought that they will serve our country in a morally appropriate manner and make ethical decisions that will better us and the world we live in. Obligations can be difficult and sometimes conflicting especially when dealing with moral issues that will affect such a large majority of people. Sometimes when deciding on a law the answer may not be so clear-cut. More than one obligation can exist in any given situation. When obligations are conflicting in governmental situations it is important to analyze the decision in question. The options and consequences must be weighed. It is crucial to look at the situation and the morals that will be involved. What options do lawmakers have when making this important choice? With every moral situation there are options on what different can be taken. The second step is to consider how the choice will affect others. Governmental decisions need to consider how it will affect every individual in the society not just one specific group. Besides make sure the decision is lawful for all it is important to try and understand how the individuals in the society will feel and their thoughts about a given situation. Lawmakers have that obligation to their voters. It is not about doing what is solely right for the government but about doing is ethically correct for everyone. It is important to consider the trickle down affect. If the government makes a certain decision than this may happen, and in return than maybe this. It is crucial to understand the broad consequences as well. And what the longer-term effects will be on the society as a whole. The government has an obligation to the citizens in the society, but I believe the citizens also have an obligation to the government and to each other. In Thinking Critically about Ethical Issues author Ryan Ruggerio states, â€Å"The United Nations’ Declaration of Human Rights contains similar references to rights. It begins, for example, by declaring that â€Å"human rights should be protected by the rule of law† and goes on to say that all human beings â€Å"should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood† (Ruggerio, 2008). Most ethical issues deal with how something makes us feel and fulfilling our personal or humanistic needs and desires. It is crucial for individuals to be informed about the decision or opposition they are taking. This insures that what you are preaching or voting on is something that you truly believe in. In many cases it is about the individual or a group of individuals giving lawmakers the ideas in order to create positive change. Change can happen because of a leader in the community. This idea can be sometimes pose problems. It can be difficult because the majority does not specifically base their decision based on what is morally right or wrong. So in return the majority’s choice is not always perfect, and in many cases can be very ignorant. In a lot of occasions the majority rule often equals mob rule. People often forget to determine what morally sound for the masses and instead determine what is right for them. If you follow the â€Å"mob† you are not thinking for yourself. In return you are not standing up for what you believe is morally correct and you may be following a negative concept or idea. While meeting their obligations governmental officials must write and past laws for the people in the society. When establishing new laws lawmakers need to go a little further and consult the ethical ideas of the society. If they did not have this concept of what is morally correct laws would not have a strong influence on individual behaviors. It would fail to connect with the people in the society in return not hold much weight. Making many laws ignored by the society. In order to form laws we need a sense of what is deemed morally correct by the culture we are creating them for. The first step governmental officials must do when making a decision for the society is to find and be aware of the problem that they are trying to fix. The second step in the decision making process towards a high-quality choice is to analyze the problem and its causes. During this process they must ask questions to find the real root of your problem. In the textbook Applying Psychology author Andrew J. Dubrin states, â€Å"Many decisions prove to be poor decisions because the underlying or true problem was not resolved† (Durbin, 2004). Lawmakers must be able to understand what is going on so that you can properly guide your actions. Once they have fully looked at every aspect of the problem it is important to search for creative alternatives. This is crucial in order for them to make appropriate decision for everyone in the society. Poor decisions are often made when this is not done. With more choices lawmakers will be able to come to a wiser conclusion. Once they have thought of possible choices a decision must be made on the one that best suits the masses. It is imperative to think of the pros and cons of all the alternatives that had previously been thought of. Each one should be thought of with the same amount of deliberation, so that it can be sure that the right choice has been made. Lawmaker’s then implement the decision that has been made. One of the most important steps in lawmaking comes at the end of the decision making process. The final step is to evaluate the decision that has been made. Lawmakers must look at what they have decided and see if the results are what had been expected. If they are not happy with the solution and it is not working properly for the individuals that it was made for than they might have a new problem on their hands and have to start to work through the steps of problem solving again to find a new answer to the issue. Reflection is also a way to evaluate a law decided on so that you officials can strengthen any weaknesses so they will be ready when they are faced with a new problem that needs solving. After laws have been instituted it is important to ensure that the lawmakers are also behaving morally appropriate. We as voters exercise our ethical choices every time we go to the polls and vote for our appointed officials. But what is holding them responsible for behaving in an ethical manner after they have already won an election. After the Watergate Scandal in 1978 the Ethics in Government Act was put into affect. The Ethics in Government Act forced restrictions on finances of government officials and lobbyist. After this act was passed the Office of Government Ethics was established. This agency is a branch of the executive government. It helps to prevent and determine resolutions to problems existing within in this branch of government. The agency puts responsibility on government employees and helps to stop divergence in interests. Within the Office of Government Ethics there is four different subdivisions. Ethics help to guide people’s behavior and assist them in coming to conclusions. There is not an exact rule to what is morally correct because some people view things differently but by having a general since of what is ethically appropriate it can help a society function in a civilized manner. The role of government in ethics, and the role of ethics in government are very important concepts in forming that civilized society. The government as a whole and its elected officials has an obligation to make morally appropriate decisions for every individual in the society.

Answers to Cases Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Answers to Cases - Essay Example The toxic plume caused massive kill of birds and fish. Moreover, it contaminated the drinking water of almost 2.5 million people. Acid mine drainage is another negative consequence of gold extraction. This can affect the environment for a long term period if the governments and communities do not take any kind of initiative. Stakeholder Theory Approach This case study is focused on negative impact of gold mining on the environment. A business firm can address to several opinion of different stakeholders linked with a particular issue through a stakeholder approach. There are two stakeholder categories namely market and non-market stakeholders. This part of the report will discuss about the contribution of these two types of stakeholders. Market Shareholders In this particular case; shareholders, employees and customers can be considered as the market stakeholders. Employees and the customers are considered as the key stakeholders of an organization. The workers of gold mining company know that using huge earth moving machines and dangerous explosive materials can crate risk to their health. This environmental conflict can force the employees to raise their voice against the gold mining process. On the other hand, shareholders always try to buy the share of these companies as gold is considered as one of the expensive metals. Customers also try to consume gold as the demand of this metal will continuously increase in future. Non-Market Shareholders Government, communities and several non-governmental organizations are considered as the non market stakeholders. It is important for the government to develop several environmental policies and laws for the gold mining organizations to reduce the level of environment pollution. Huge explosive materials and Cyanide heap-leaching is causing death of mankind and animals (Lottermoser, 2010, p.27). Ultimately, the ecological balance and safety of community is getting affected due to these gold mining activities. Community is another important stakeholder. Several villages and communities near the gold mines are getting affected. The villagers do not understand danger of the several collected hazardous liquid metals. More than 1000 individuals became ill due to the deadly effect of these metals. The nongovernmental organizations are also considered as the non market stakeholders. The gold mining organizations are trying to utilize several deadly mining materials to extract more number of gold metals. Several business support group are helping these organizations to secure the profit margin and financial stability. These activities are ultimately affecting the environment and health of several human beings and non-human animals. However, government is trying to initiate several awareness campaigns in order to the environmental conflict with the help of several NGOs. Stakeholder Map Several gold mining organizations are using Cyanide heap-leaching and heavy earth mover to maximize their gold mining. Cy anide is a deadly poison. The waste water and materials are generally spilled into the river. It causes death of several birds and fish. On the other hand, process of metal extraction seriously pollutes the air. It can cause several human diseases. The following stakeholder map will help to determine the position of all the stakeholders, such as employees,

Preservation of rainforests & maintaining ecobalance Essay

Preservation of rainforests & maintaining ecobalance - Essay Example In addition it is very sad to note that about 150 acres of rainforests are victims of fire every minute equating to 200,000 acres every day meaning annually 78 million acres of valuable rainforests are going up in smoke! The colossal loss due to deforestation of rainforests can be gauged from the statistics given below: Extinction of rare medicine men (called shamans) having knowledge of the herbs and plants of medicinal value in rainforests: for example in the Amazonian rainforest the population of Indians has dwindled and fallen to a mere 200,000 from ten million in five centuries. Consequences of deforestation can be classified into local and global sectors. The immediate effects of deforestation are evident at local level and the effects at global level are evident in long term. The forest acts like a sponge by absorbing enormous amount of water during heavy rainfall and releasing at regular intervals, thus preventing floods and drought cycles. On deforestation the rainwater immediately drains off through streams into rivers, thus raising their water level and submerging villages, cities and agricultural fields downstream. During dry season the areas downstream are prone to long droughts, preventing river navigation and interrupting industrial operations. Rainforests help raise the humidity levels through transpiration resulting into good rainfall. Deforestation results in decline of rainfall since less or no moisture is evapotranspired into the atmosphere. Globally the wind and ocean current patterns are altered due to deforestation of rainforests and the r ainfall distribution is bound to become unstable (Source: Consequences of deforestation of Mongabay.com site). Deforestation also results into erosion of fertile soil, thus reducing the productivity and increasing the expenditure on fertilizers. The washed off fertile soil gets accumulated on river bed thus raising water level and causing floods, the silt may also obstruct the hydroelectric projects located downstream (Source: Consequences of deforestation of Mongabay.com site). Deforestation results in reduction of oxygen levels increase in carbon dioxide and other gas levels in the atmosphere. This effect is called "greenhouse effect". The greenhouse effect causes a rise in temperature allover the world i.e., Global Warming and it has long term repercussions (Source: Consequences of deforestation of Mongabay.com site). The various species of living forms in a rainforest be it plants or animals have developed a complex symbiotic relationship for millions of years, when one species is removed from this complex system the whole system is severely effected. In a symbiotic relationship both the participating species benefit mutually. Symbiotic relationship is a rule and not an exception in rainforests (Rainforest Ecology). Human being is solely responsible both direct and indirect deforestation by indulging in various activities such as slash-and-burn farming,

Decisions in Paradise Business Scenario, Part 1 Essay

Decisions in Paradise Business Scenario, Part 1 - Essay Example So, in this paper, I as part of ARS Corp will focus on the challenges or problems, which could impede our company’s initiative in Kava. ARS’ initiative After tentatively analyzing the business opportunities in Kava, ARS group wants to initiate the setting up a Business School. ARS’ initiative of Business School would not only aid them in showcasing their expertise in teaching business management skills, but also fulfill their Corporate Social responsibility. Mainly with these two objectives as the goals, ARS Corp can initiate actions and start doing the ground work for it. Importantly, with the Business School by providing constructive education to Kava’s youth and thereby taking care of the social angle, ARS can expect fullest support from the Kava Government as well as its citizens. After Government’s clearance comes through, ARS Corp can channel the needed funds to our basic working group in Kava, so they can start constructing the infrastructure s needed for the school. One can expect maximal support for this initiative from the Kava people because education being a key necessity for their development, the school will surely receive good number of Youth enrolment. Problems that will impede the initiative When we under the ARS Corp launch our initiative it cannot be a smooth sailing affair because we could face problems both in the internal and its external environment, which could not only impede the establishment of the Business School, but could also impede its functioning. The first of these ‘destructive’ problems that could impede the setting up of the Business School is Kava’s continuing problems with the natural disasters. As Kava is located in the naturally volatile Pacific Ocean, it has been subjected to various forms of natural disasters, which includes, Tornadoes and the resultant floods, Earthquakes, Volcanic eruptions, etc, etc. The Business school could face the burnt of these natural disast ers, and it could destroy all its infrastructures. Particularly if the ‘epicenter’ of the disasters is close to the Business School, then it will wreck the infrastructures maximally. With most of the island of Kava exposed to the fury of the natural forces, there seems to be no safe place to initiate the construction of the infrastructures. Physically, natural mishaps may take place which influence a country’s capability to make the most out of using some particular natural assets. (Armstrong and Long, 2004). Although, the construction can be started by incorporating all the needed inbuilt protections using technology, there will be some skeptics, who may question the viability and the success of the initiative, only focusing on the risk factors. If this skepticism enters the mind of the top management as well as the stockholders in ARS Crop, then the flow of finances could be restricted. The other impediment from the financial angle is, the management could rise about the costs that may need to reconstruct the infrastructures, after it has been exposed to a natural disaster. As the natural disaster may not completely pull down the infrastructures, there will be structures standing and to rebuild them, financial resources will be needed. So, this factor also has to be taken into consideration. The other problem, which could impede the

Bally Total Fitness Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Bally Total Fitness - Case Study Example Bally had been capitalizing on a trend in the early 2000’s where more Americans were becoming devoted to fitness and were attempting to reduce their household or personal obesity levels. It was during this period where a large portion of American society proclaimed to be interested in fitness and understood its importance in physical health. Bally began to target this large segment of â€Å"uninitiated believers† as the primary market for potential growth in the firm (Wells, 2008, p.1). Bally quickly became successful, by changing its marketing premise and targeting objectives, to create a rather diverse user profile for its many facilities. By adding new services that were in-line with the current needs of its vast consumer base, such as Pilates training, yoga, and other core systems, Bally found considerable success and growth. However, growth in much different public and private health clubs and organizations began to take some of Bally’s market share away by using celebrity endorsements or by appealing to niche market groups and then capitalizing on their personal needs to find success, such as with Curves. It was large growth in the competition that harmed Bally’s market position. Bally maintained many different barriers in terms of entering new markets since the equipment used for fitness cannot be easily converted into newly-marketable products or services. They are designed for physical fitness only. Under Porter’s Five Forces Model, â€Å"asset specificity is the extent to which a firm’s assets can be used to produce a different product† (quickmba.com, 2010, p.4). Bally had incorporated specialized training in the firm from outsourced or in-house talent experts, such as Pilates and yoga instructors, whose knowledge and skills could not be transferred into new markets.  

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Corporate startegy - Essay Example Cookson group plc notable has enhanced its strategic position which put the company forward as a competitive in the industry. The company business model and strategies takes into account the changing corporate environment and the systematic realization of the underlying positioning. The company has achieved this through devise of a desired position in the future based on the foreseeable and present developments as well as strategizing to realize this positioning. Focus and emphasis is laid on the company continuity and the determination of character and contents of the organization activities. The company strategic position is underpinned on several aspects including leading global markets positions in its industry and development of market exposure to increase revenue and profits. Others include enhanced technology, increased R&D capability, acquisitions, strong cash flow momentum and expansion into international markets. Cookson group plc has two main divisions in its business model which are Performance material section and Engineering Ceramics where it operates under Alent PLC and Vesuvious PLC respectively. These divisions facilitate in supplying specialist consumable materials and chemicals in industrial production processes. It is notable that both divisions have adopted the same business model and the way operations are carried out. The company notably sells its products based on added value as opposed to just price (Cookson Group Plc 2006). Cookson group plc also focuses on sustaining and maintaining strong financial position enhancing support on its businesses in the divisions. This business model strives to achieve this through enhanced long-term financing arrangements with ample liquidity and low leverage headroom. Cookson business model and strategy can be summarized as follows:- This analysis involves study on the corporate environment that the company operates so as to

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History response 10 - Assignment Example The sudden halt of opium trade greatly affected the British since they were the main exporters and therefore the new rules meant that they would no longer conduct any opium trade with the Chinese citizens who were their main clients (Gibson). It is because of this that the Britons took up their weapons and headed for china in one of the most controversial war that has ever happened, â€Å"the opium war† (Gibson). The war resulted to massive loss of lives all in the name of free trade between China and Britain. Trade between China and Britain resulted large acquisition of wealth, this is because whereas the British obtained their wealth from the selling of opium to the Chinese, Conversely, the Chinese also benefited a lot from the trade since they also took this position to sell their tea to the Britons who were their major clients as well (Gibson). The British were real lovers of the Chinese tea to the extent that by the 18th century they would import about six million pounds of tea on an annual basis. The opium that was being exported to China was mostly used in the manufacture of drugs but the reason why the Chinese government suddenly decided to declare the trade illegal was the fact that the drug was being mixed with tobacco then smoked for more pleasure which later resulted to drug abuse and opium addiction(Gibson). Although the opium war caused massive loss of lives, but finally it resulted to development of a much greater China- Britain relations both in terms of trade and economic boost. Trade between the two nations received a boost after the construction of five ports in a move to promote foreign trade

Tuition Reimbursement Implementation Report Term Paper

Tuition Reimbursement Implementation Report - Term Paper Example tivation to the employees who are compensated for having business communication degrees, the company will get to benefit massively from a good reputation, effective advertising and marketing as well as in other ways. Business communication is important for every kind of business. Businesses always need to relay information amongst their stakeholders, promote products, and in dealing with legal issues. The business also needs to relay information between its supply chain. The information that is being passed between the business stakeholders needs to be accurate and effective if the organization must continue to be in existence. This is the essence of business communication. Businesses communicate using various methods in communicating their issues to various parties. Some of the most common means that they use include video conferencing, websites, emails, telephones, forum boards, reports, face-to-face meetings and presentations (O’Neil & Gaye, 2006). Business communication is applied in a whole range of business activities including customer relations, public relations, community engagement, consumer behavior, and advertising. Other activities that fall within the gambit of business communication include employee engagement, research and measurement, event management just to mention a few according to O’Neil and Gaye (2006). Considering the skills that they gain from the training that hey receive in college, Business Communication graduates usually have a lot to offer when they get employed by companies. Every forward thinking organization should seek to properly reward and motivate productive employees (Martocchio, nd). This report seeks to highlight the main reasons for the proposal that employees with business communication degrees should be better compensated in terms of tuition reimbursement benefits owing to the nature of their training and potential benefits to the company. Graduates with Business Communication degrees have a lot to gain in the

Entry barriers of Underground construction industry in Russia Essay

Entry barriers of Underground construction industry in Russia - Essay Example Market structures that are likely to be found within an industry include perfect competition, monopolistic competition, monopoly and oligopoly (Etro, 2009, p.273). While these are the most common, others like oligopsony, monopsony and price discrimination (Etro, 2009, p.275) also exist. The defining variables to each of the listed market structure acts as the source of barriers to entry in the markets. These barriers, however, vary across the markets, with some markets having substantial barriers than others. Barriers to entry are simply defined as hindrances or factors that prevent firms from entering specific markets (Edgerton, 2008, p.107). Barrier levels as already mentioned vary from one market to another, with some markets being characterized by easy access, while others remain hard to enter. For instance, pure competitive markets are characterized by free entry and exit, while monopoly markets are substantially hard to enter (Spulber, 2006, p.135-152). Sources of these barriers are diverse and dynamic over time. They are spread across cost of operation, brand loyalty by consumers, number of buyers and sellers, reaction of incumbent firms, government regulation and licencing (OECD, 2008, p.141-142). The Russian construction industry is one of the many industries in the economy that faces market entry barriers, prior to the different market structures evident in the industry. Amid the aforementioned sources of entry barriers, Porter’s five forces are critical to account for. They include rivalry, threat of substitutes, buyer power, supplier power and entry barriers (Etro, 2009, p.303). These forces account for the markets trends and business undertakings that make one market hard to enter compared to other markets. Markets that are hard to enter enjoy market powers that allow the firms operating in it set prices that are in most cases higher than competitive prices. The evaluation of entry barriers of Russian underground

The VAK Learning System Essay Example for Free

The VAK Learning System Essay The first evaluation is to find out if student learns better by hearing, seeing, or moving information as a part of processing it. Every person’s learning style is either or a combination of auditory, visual, or kinesthetic (tactile) in terms of the way he or she learns best. No particular style is better than the others; it is all about what works best for the individual. The learning styles are put together by a system in which is VAK. VAK stands for Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic (Tactile). The theory is one prefers to learn through one of these sense channels. Visual Learning Style learn through seeing . . . These learners need to see the teacher’s body language and facial expression to fully understand the content of a lesson. They tend to prefer sitting at the front of the classroom. They may think in pictures and learn best from visual displays including: diagrams, illustrated textbooks, overhead transparencies, videos, flipcharts, use of interactive whiteboards, and hand-outs. During a lesson or classroom discussions, visual learners often prefer to take detailed notes to absorb the information. Highlight important points in text. Use books on tapes. Use a tape recorder to tape lectures, presentations, directions, etc. Learn to use text glossary, indexes, appendices, chapter summaries, etc. Preview texts. Auditory Learning Style learn through listening . . . They learn best through verbal lessons, discussions, talking things through and listening to what others have to say. Auditory learners interpret the underlying meanings of speech through listening to the tone of voice, pitch, and speed. Written information may have little meaning until it is heard. These learners often benefit from reading text aloud and using a tape recorder. Discuss their ideas. Work in study groups. Recite information that is important to remember. Review printed material before auditory information is presented. Repeat back instructions just heard to check clarity. Kinesthetic (Tactile) Learning Style learn through moving, doing, and touching . . . Kinesthetic learners learn best through a hands-on approach, actively exploring the physical world around them. They may find it hard to sit still for long periods and may become distracted by their need for activity and exploration. Take frequent study breaks. Work at a standing position. Listen to music while they study. Bring some type of â€Å"grip toy† to class to hold on to. Skim through reading material to get a rough idea what it is about before sitting down to read it in detail. â€Å"No one person uses one style of learning exclusively, but they do have preferred learning styles. It is therefore important to attempt to cater for all learning styles during lessons to enable the most efficient learning to take place.†

Impacts of Mergers Acquisitions on Shareholder Wealth

Impacts of Mergers Acquisitions on Shareholder Wealth This dissertation attempts to investigate, the impact of Mergers Acquisition (MA) on shareholder wealth in the European banking industry from 2003-2007 and explains in depth detail of the literature reviewed by the author to provide the basis of the successful achievement of the project. MA has been a popular research topic in finance with broad literature exists on MA. For this review to be achievable, a broad search for information was undertaken by means of the internet and library. The research question will examine the wealth effects (abnormal returns) of MA involving European banks using `event study` methodology over the period of 2003-2007 in both the announcement period and long run post acquisition period. In other words, can MA improves or destroy shareholder wealth of the targets, bidders and combined firms. 1.2 Introduction The decade of 1990 saw the biggest increase in European MA activity. Merger Acquisitions (MA) have been a significant phenomenon in the Europe. and the world economy which symbolizes one of the most important strategic decisions made by managers and shareholders of the engaged firm. Sudarsanam (2003,para1,p.1) argues shareholders and managers may be the most important stakeholders in MA but other groups such as workers, competitors, lenders, customers all have a collective interest in this activity. MA may be undertaken in order to replace an inefficient management, but sometimes two businesses may be more valuable together than apart. Motivation behind the mergers is to maximise the shareholders wealth. However, according to Jensen and Ruback (1983) and Sirower and O`byrne (1998), in almost two third of cases, mergers produce wealth gains for target shareholders and more or less zero gains to acquirers. Various studies have found that, usually the announcement of bank mergers neither create nor destroy shareholders value Pilloff and Santomero (1998). Also, some studies indicates that the announcement of certain types of bank mergers do create value, if that merger reduce costs. Berger, Demsetz, Strahan (1999) identified five fundamental dynamic factors that motivate corporate takeovers i.e. an increase of globalization, technological progress, financial deregulation, changes in customer demand and the integration of financial markets. Arnold (2005, para2, p.1041), defined mergers as the combining of two business entities under common ownership whereas Bruner (2005) states it as consolidation of two firms that creates a new entity in the eyes of the law. According to Investorwords.com acquisition is a acquiring control of a corporation, called a target, by stock purchase or exchange, either `hostile` or `friendly` which also be called takeover. E.g. in October 2007, Royal bank of Scotland (RBS) merged with Dutch bank ABN Amro to clinch Europes biggest ever banking takeover with 86% of ABN Amros shareholders accepting a 71bn euro (Ft.com). Bruner (2005) argues takeover activities are strategic transactions that could turn out to be an excellent investment of capital and resources. 1.3Merger waves Nowadays, MA is well known fact that comes in waves according to evidence from Bruner (2005), Gorton, Kahl Rosen (2005), Martynova Renneboog (2006). Five individual merger waves were observed in the UK economy in the last century i.e. 1900`s, the 1960`s, the 1970`s, the 1980`s and the 1990`s. (Kastrinaki, Stoneman 2007) Brankman, Garretsen, Van Marrewijk (2008) argues that, in terms of economic importance, the dominant merger wave unpredictable is the positive global outcome, suggesting that MA waves are an economy wide global phenomenon. The wave of bank mergers has been established to explain the diverse theories e.g. the `efficiency hypothesis` expect that mergers improve efficiency and help poor banks to survive as competition becomes increasingly rigorous in the banking industry. Gugler, Mueller, Yurtoglu (2004) finds that merger waves can be implicit if one identify that MA do not boost efficiency and doesnt increase shareholders` wealth but instead sited that MA waves are best come across as the answer of overvalued shares and managerial opinion. 1.4Why do MA occur? In various European countries, mergers have allowed banks to increase efficiency by assisting the coordination of the closing of branches. Banks shareholders and managers need to recognize the potential sources of economic gain emerged from MA. Banks can reduce costs and increase value in different ways e.g. diversification. I.e. if mergers generate cost synergies such as economies of scale, banks can reduce expenses. According to evidence from Berkovitch Narayanan (1993), Sudarsanam, Holl Salami (1996), Hannan Pilloff (2006), Martynova Renneboog (2006), the motives for MA have been categorised into the three main groups i.e. economic motive or synergy, managerial or agency problems and hubris. The actual distribution of merger gains between target and bidder shareholders will depend on their individual negotiating strengths. Therefore, following table shows the impact of mergers on shareholders wealth: Merger Motive Total Gains Target Gains Bidder Gains Synergy + + + Agency problems + Hubris 0 + 1.4.1 Synergy Motive The first key group that accounts for MA is an economic or synergy motive which means that two companies can achieve together which they cant achieve single-handedly. Siems (1996) argued that synergy theory projected that the acquiring bank can efficiently create synergies via economies of scale and scope by reducing costs and eliminating redundancies and duplication. Economies of scale occurs when the average unit cost of production declines as volume increases e.g. banking mergers in the UK of Bank of Scotland and Halifax of 30bn merger in May 2001, to create HBOS fifth major force in UK banking sector. The idea was that the Bank of Scotland was operating in north of the country and Halifax was in south by merging these two banks, were trying to reduce cost of processing banking transactions. Economies of scope occurs when the cost of producing several products in a multi product firm is lower than the cost of producing the same products by individual firms e.g. Banc assurance model, British banking and issuance giant Lloyds TSB acquired Scottish Widows in June 1999 for 7bn. Sudarsanam et al (1996) identified the sources of value creation into three main types i.e. operational synergy, managerial synergy and financial synergy. Operational synergy occurs during the recognition of economies of scale and scope, vertical integration, the elimination of duplicate activities, the transfer of knowledge or skills by the bidders management team and a reduction in agency costs by bringing organization precise assets underneath common ownership (Ravenscraft Scherer 1987, 1989 cited in Martynova Renneboog 2006). Sources of value in vertical mergers includes reducing transaction costs in which combining different stages of the production chain can reduce costs of communication and bargaining i.e. one companys output is other companys input and by putting together will make the business efficient. E.g. Microsoft bid for Yahoo in January 2008, worth $42bn that will create more powerful browser or have a better chance of tackling the internet search leader. Having said that, current trends towards outsourcing suggest that, the benefits from vertical mergers are limited. According to Martynova Renneboog (2006), establishments of operating synergies reduce production distribution costs and yielding an incremental cash flow accruing to the companys post-merger shareholders. Sudarsanam et al (1996) argues managerial synergy could occur if the bidder has a competent managerial team and takes over a target with fewer competent managers. Such takeover is disciplinary and likely to improve the wealth gain for both bidder and target shareholders. Having said that, there is a considerable risk of agency problems where the managers do not operate in the interest of shareholders. Martynova Renneboog (2006) argues that diversifying takeovers are likely to gain from financial synergies in which financial synergies may incorporate improved cash flow stability, cheaper access to capital, an internal capital market as well as contracting efficiencies created by a reduction in managers employment risk. Conglomerate mergers allow risk diversification by spreading the income stream of the holding company over a wide variety of products and markets. Sudarsanam et al (1996) finds that financial synergy materialize from three likely sources i.e. the tax advantage of unused debt, the growth opportunities and financial resources of the emerging companies and the coinsurance of debt of the two companies which result in lower costs of capital. 1.4.2 Agency factor The second main motive for MA is managerial or agency factor. Shareholders are Principals i.e. owners of companys assets and managers are employed as shareholders Agents to manage these assets on their behalf. Managers should make decisions that are consistent with the objective of maximize the shareholder wealth, but managers do not share this objective necessarily. Managers will have their own personal objectives which will be mainly concerned with maximizing their own welfare (Sudarsanam et al 1996). Therefore, managerial decisions in acquisitions may result in agent costs that reduce the total value of the joint firm as they do not maximise but weaken shareholders return. Berger, Demsetz, Strahan (1999) argues that one managerial intention may be empire-building. Executive compensation leads to increase with companys size, so managers may wish to accomplish personal financial gains by engaging in MA, although at least in part the higher observed compensation of the managers of larger institutions rewards greater skill and effort. To protect their firm-specific human capital, some managers may also try to reduce insolvency risk below the level i.e. in shareholders interest possibly by diversifying risk through MA movement. Arnold (2005) observes that the managers may enjoy the thrill of the merger process itself and as a result push for such deals to take place. 1.4.3 Hubris The third and final main motive for MA is Hubris which was specified by Richard Roll in 1986. Arnold (2005, para2, p.1055), define hubris as over weaning self confidence or, less kindly, arrogance. The hubris hypothesis states that the valuation of target by the bidder management is over optimistic and per se the bidding firms management overpays for the target. This perhaps for a number of bases such as decisions makers believing themselves, that the value exists when it does not or that their valuation is correct and that the market is not shimmering the full economic value of the combined firm. These managers may perhaps be overconfident or have misplaced faith in their ability to develop the profit performance of the target firm. Berkovitch Narayanan (1993) argues that the hubris maintains that decision makers in the bidding firms simply pay too much for their targets as a result of mistakes in overestimating the value of the targets. 1.5 Factors influencing shareholder returns Shareholders returns are not just affected by MA announcements, but they are also influenced by bid characteristics e.g. method of payment, cross border MA, friendly vs. hostile bids etc. 1.5.1 Method of payment The method of payment is one of the key variables that must be agreed between the buyer and seller to determine the firms` abnormal returns and overall outcome of the bid. According to Huang and Walkling (1989), The form of payment will influence bidding strategy if it affects the anticipated NPVs of an acquisition. Huang and Walkling found that when method of payment and degree of conflict were taken into account statistically, abnormal returns were no higher in tender offers than in mergers. Payment methods can affect NPVs through interrelations with either acquisition cost or the probability of success or both whereas Dube, Glascock Romero (2007) argues that the different stages of benefit growing to the target and acquiring firms shareholders is attributed to the alternative methods of payments. Arnold (2005, para1, p.1059) states that cash payment has been the most popular and most valued method of payment which offers higher return than equity. For example, bidding firm is expected to carry out stock financed merger if the management of bidding firm has better-quality inside information that the existing assets of the firm are overvalued. However, if the bidder firm has confidential information about the target company and trusts it to be undervalued, then it probably offer cash financed merger. Therefore, merger financed with stocks are a negative signal because the use of stocks as a method of payment is more likely to occur when the stock is overvalued, while the use of cash is taken as the firm being overvalued. Alternatively, if target shareholders consider that their bank is overvalued, they will prefer to receive cash. This theory is supported by empirical literature and it demonstrates that at the time of the bid announcement acquirers who propose cash, tend to practice higher abnormal returns than those who offer stock financed merger. The advantage of cash is that the acquirer shareholders hold the same level of control over their company because their proportion of ownership has not been diluted by giving target shareholders stock options in the merged company. Therefore, the returns to the shareholders of a bidding firm will be higher in cash financed merger than the stock. Brealey, Myers Marcus (2004, para1, p.599) states if cash is offered, the cost of the merger is not affected by the size of the merger gains. And if stock is offered, the cost depends on the gains because the gains show up in the post merger share price, and these shares are used to pay for the acquired firm. 1.5.2 Cross border MA The combination of worldwide financial markets has been going together with, increases in the number and tiny proportion of firms that operate in the global market and the globalization process has been to a rational extent encouraged by cross border MA. According to Brankman, Garretsen, Van Marrewijk (2005, 2008) cross border MA are the main medium for foreign direct investment. MA provides fundamental but also limited understanding of this form of takeover, as cross-border MA are most likely related to economy-wide shocks such as economic integration, changes in the legal and regulatory environment or likely asymmetric business cycles. Based on past empirical evidence, though the majority of the domestic MA create significant wealth gains for the targets and negative or zero returns for bidders, cross border MA could have different impact on related firms. Kang (1993) stated that cross border MA are expected to create more wealth than domestic ones because of existence of market imperfections which leads to guide multinational firms (MNC) having a competitive advantage over local firms. Foreign banks have to act in accordance with with both regulations at home and abroad; domestic credit establishments have cost advantages, since fulfilling two diverse sets of regulation enforce additional costs on foreign banks. Also, different regulations reduce the amount of related fixed costs. This decreases the possibility for banks to collect benefits from economies of scale and scope. Economies of scale propose that bank is able to reduce its costs by growing the volume of output of products and services it already produces. As a result of developing into new country, a bank increases its potential client base and benefits from economies of scale. According to economies of scope, banks that diversify activities could reduce costs by providing more services. 1.5.3 Friendly vs. hostile bids Analysis regarding the impact of hostile takeovers has been arguable, varying from the benefits of market discipline for maximizing efficient utilization of resources to the damage of market shortsightedness on the economy, on the society and on value built over years. Dube, Glascock Romero (2007) argues such debates can impact financial marketsand can be expected to expand as developing markets open up to foreign corporations and as economic power is redistributed amongst countries. Hostile takeovers occur, when the management of a firm resists the takeover attempt by bidders. Lambrecht and Myers (2007) state that in some cases a potentially hostile acquirer could be better off negotiating with the target management for a merger and that such a situation reduces the power of the target shareholder to extract value from the bidder. Hostile acquisitions also involve swifter and more drastic changes in target. In both friendly and hostile acquisitions, overpayment can arise due to age ncy reflection of managerial objective maximization by the acquirer management. Goergen and Renneboog (2003) analyzed the market reactions to the different types of takeovers i.e. friendly, hostile and bids with multiple bidders. They found that hostile bids created the largest abnormal returns for the target i.e. 13% on the announcement day. When a hostile bid is made, the share price of the target straight away reflects the expectation that opposition to the bid will guide to upward revisions of the offer price. Various empirical studies have found that the returns to bidders in hostile takeovers are negative; resulting in low possibility of success of a hostile bid. 1.6 Impact of MA on shareholders Almost all of the studies of MA in banking industry are based on US data. As we know, one of the main objectives of mergers is to maximise the shareholders value by the means of increase in dividends and increase in share prices, so the shareholders can enjoy the capital gains. The two most important methods which can be used to assess the impact of MA were explained by Firth in 1980. In the first method, accounting information is used to determine the firms` financial performance profitability. The second method believes in efficient market which can be used in share price movements to estimate the economic impact of the event. The second method, direct measures any increase or reduction in shareholders wealth but also experience from the reality that no market is really efficient which results to mislead conclusions due to movement in share price. In this project, author chose the second method i.e. an event study in which the focal point will be on three different sets e.g. the target, the bidder and the impact of MA on combined firm in the long run. Various empirical studies on MA have concentrated on establishing stock market reaction around the announcement of a deal and whether a merger creates value for the shareholders of target and bidding firm. Delong (2001) examined 56 banks between 1991 and 1995, for focusing mergers that create positive abnormal returns whereas diversifying mergers produce negative abnormal returns. DeLong (2001) has point out that upon announcement the market responds positively to mergers that focus both on the activities and geography, which is consistent with Siems (1996). Delong finds that the cumulative abnormal returns (CAR) of target firm has been increased to 14.8% after merger and the bidding firm loose a significant 2.2%, whereas the combined firm neither created nor destroyed the shareholders value. The result also shows that the long term performance is improved when mergers involve inefficient bidders, payment not just made by cash and earnings are not diversified. Cybo ottone and Murgia (2000) analysed 54 largest MA deals with CARs at +3,41% between 1988 and 1997 on the European banking sector in 14 European markets. They have found that at the time of announcement, there was a positive and an important increase in the market value of the banks engaged in these deals. They have found positive abnormal returns for both buyers and the sellers using the general market index in the short period of eleven days, but found negative market reaction to acquiring bank. In other words, European bank mergers generate value for the combined firms including the target and the bidders do not lose. Various studies have shown that in Europe and the USA, target shareholders earn positive abnormal returns from mergers. Cyboottone and Murgia (2000) stated that bidding firm shareholders earn positive abnormal returns in European studies whereas in USA studies bidding firm shareholders earn negative abnormal returns from the mergers. Shareholders of target European banks achieve more than the bidding bank shareholders, however, the difference is very tiny indeed. So in other words, we can say that Cyboottone and Murgia (2000) results are not consistent with the USA banking literature which shows that no value creation effects are usually found. Martynova and Renneboog (2006) examined the short term wealth effects of 2,419 European MA announcements between 1993 and 2001 in twenty eight European countries. They found that UK target created higher returns (9%) and UK bidders experienced lower wealth losses (0.5%) in comparison to the total European average result. They also identified the share price reaction of bidding firms; on a hostile merger i.e. it generated a negative abnormal return of -0.4%, on the other hand, a friendly acquisition created a positive abnormal return of 0.8%. Therefore, Martynova and Renneboog (2006) have concluded that MA do create value for the bidding and the target shareholders in which target shareholders enjoy majority of gains as they collect large premiums. Beitel (2001) look at 98 large MA of European banks between 1985 and 2000 using the event study in which he found out, the shareholders of the target firm enjoy positive cumulative abnormal returns (CAR), whereas the shareholders of the bidding firm doesnt earn any CARs. However, the combined analysis of bidding and target European bank merger do create the shareholders value significantly. They also notice a change in the results after 1998 that European bidding banks in large deals experienced negative CARs and especially cross border mergers of European banks appeared to have destroyed shareholders value. Table 1: Summary of bank mergers using event studies of previous Abnormal Returns to shareholders MA studies Sample period Sample size Event Window Target CARs (%) Bidder CARs (%) Antoniou, Arbour Zhao (2006) 1985-2004 396 -2 to +2 17.37 -3.32 Cybo-ottone Murgia (2000) 1988-1997 54 -10 to 0 16.1 Not significant DeLong (2001) 1988-1995 280 -10 to 1 16.61 -1.68 Sudarasanam, Holl Salami (1996) 1980-1990 429 -20to+40 days 29 -4 Becher (2000) 1980-1997 553 -30 to +5 22.64 -0.1 Siems (1996) 1995 19 -1 to +1 13 -2 Houston Ryngaert (1997) 1985-1991 184 -2 to +2 20.40 -2.40 Ismail and Davidson (2005) studied 102 merger announcements in European banking industry between 1987 and 1999. They found positive abnormal returns for targets and the return to bidders differs across the deal type, also the merger deals earn higher returns than acquisition deals. They reported that the high competition in the market and reduction in the profitability in the banking industry in Europe is extending a depressing picture of performance of the future. They also reported low positive abnormal returns to target shareholders compared to other findings in the banking industry in Europe. The reason behind is that the bidder not ready to pay higher premiums in a competitive environment in which level of profits are decreasing. Ismail and Davidson (2005) pointed out that if equity is used as a method of payment instead of cash, then merger deals earn lower returns because of the fact is that equity signal to the market that the equity is overvalued which is consistent with fin dings of Huang and Walkling (1987). 1.7 Conclusion A bank acquires another bank because of number of reasons e.g. diversification, market power, managers preference etc. This literature review looks at the motives of MA based on the past academic studies i.e. Berkovitch Narayanan (1993), Sudarsanam et al (1996), Hannan Pilloff (2006), Martynova Renneboog (2006). Having said that, it is still not clear whether synergy gains or personal quest of managers is behind motivating majority of MAs. Evidence suggests that the managers may use the free cash flow for mergers that may produce negative NPV investments, because managers pursue their own interests rather than those of shareholders, resulting in mergers to not create value for shareholders. Whereas hubris, which supports the efficient market hypothesis (EMH) suggests that any bid for the target at premium overpays and it is result of the hubris. Arnold (2005) state it is similar to `winners curse` where the highest bidder will bid typically higher than the expected value of the purpose. However, most of the evidence suggests that the target shareholders gain positive abnormal returns while the cumulative abnormal returns (CARs) to the bidders are significantly negative and the combined banking firms seems to improve the shareholders value. Various studies also supports the fact that target shareholders gain at the expense of bidder shareholders and bank mergers do not create value for the combined firm in stock market reaction to bank mergers. Also, evidence shows that shareholders returns are not only affected by the MA announcements but they are also influenced by bid characteristics. 2.0 Methodology 2.1 Introduction Choosing appropriate research methods are clearly vital. According to Veal (1997) it is important for the researcher to be aware of the range of methods available and not to make claims that cannot be justified on the basis of the methods used. This part of this dissertation gives an outline how information was collected, the sample design statistics and which methodology is used by concentrating on European banking sector mergers between 2003 and 2007. Firstly, we have to decide the philosophy underlying this research, which involves choosing a paradigm. Collis and Hussey, 2003, p. 352 define paradi

The Hobbit :: Essays Papers

The Hobbit In this most appealing book, Bilbo gets caught up in an adventure he never dreamed of, that will later change his life. In the beginning Bilbo Baggins runs into an old acquaintance, Gandalf, a wizard, who he had met many years earlier at festivals, where Gandalf had made fireworks with his magic. Bilbo and Gandalf talked for a while and Bilbo being the kind and polite hobbit he was invited him for tea in his hill the next day. There at about the time Bilbo was expecting Gandalf he heard a knock at the door, but when he opened the door it was in fact not Gandalf but a little dwarf. The dwarf introduced himself to Bilbo as Thorin Oakenshield, son of Throror, son of Thrain. He then let himself in. After that many dwarves followed, actually 9 more had come to the little hobbit's doorstep. Then finally after all the dwarves had made themselves comfortable he heard another tap at the door, and sure enough it was Gandalf, but with 3 other dwarves. That night Gandalf and the dwarves spoke of wondrous tales and of a dragon’s gold that had once belonged to Thorin’s father. They also told of an adventure they were about to embark on, and then turning to Gandalf they asked what of the 13th member of the party? Gandalf spoke up and said, "My, the one I have chosen is the burglar Mr. Baggins." Bilbo did not seem pleased, for he had no need of adventure with his pleasant yet simplistic life. Even though he was secretly intrigued, but more so he was very scared. After a bit of chitchat Bilbo agreed to go and they all went to bed. When morning came Bilbo found no one in his hobbit hole, and it’s needless to say that he was very pleased, yet at the same time also a bit disappointed. He found a note from Gandalf on his Mantle telling him to meet them at the inn. So Bilbo embarked on his journey to the inn as well as his adventure. Many divergences transpired during their trip to the lonely mountain where the dragon lay with the adventurers’ soon to be gold. The journey was no walk in the park. Many fights sprung up, traps triggered, dark forests in need of paths appeared, and having to deal with creatures like trolls, goblins, elves, spiders, and many others.

Free Essays - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn :: Adventures Huckleberry Huck Finn Essays

Free Essay on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Mark Twain's novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, describes a young boy torn between what he feels for his country and what society expects of him and what his heart tells him is right. Huck Finn, faces many situations forcing him to deal with decisions that carry with them the ability to bring about change. Huck begins searching for an identity which is truly his own. In determining his self image, Huck deals with conforming to the social norms and freedom, trying on different identities that do not belong to him, and shaping these new found tributes into an identity which best suits his conscience. Throughout the book, Huck rejects "sivilized" life because he has no reason for it. All that civilization has brought for him was bad things. He meets many people and they all try to influence him to change his ways to what they see is right. Pretty soon, he does not want to deal with any of it and just wants to live a life of adventure and fun. The novel begins with Hu ck under the care of Widow Douglas as "she took me for her son, and allowed that she would civilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time." (p. 11) Huck has become so used to being free that he sees the Widow Douglas' protection solely in terms of confinement. He finds this impossible because he loses his freedom amongst "the bars and shackles of civilization." Huck feels that he belongs out under the stars where the community cannot tell him what to do. His drunken and often missing father has never paid much attention to him; his mother is dead and so, when the novel begins, Huck is not used to following any rules. At the beginning of the book, Huck is living with the Widow Douglas and her sister, Miss Watson. Both women are fairly old and are really incapable of raising a rebellious boy like Huck Finn. They attempt to make Huck into what they believe will be a better boy, as Huck says, to "sivilize" him. They do this by making Huck go to school, teach ing him about different religions, and making him act in a way that the women find socially acceptable, which means no more smoking. Free Essays - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn :: Adventures Huckleberry Huck Finn Essays Free Essay on The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Mark Twain's novel, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, describes a young boy torn between what he feels for his country and what society expects of him and what his heart tells him is right. Huck Finn, faces many situations forcing him to deal with decisions that carry with them the ability to bring about change. Huck begins searching for an identity which is truly his own. In determining his self image, Huck deals with conforming to the social norms and freedom, trying on different identities that do not belong to him, and shaping these new found tributes into an identity which best suits his conscience. Throughout the book, Huck rejects "sivilized" life because he has no reason for it. All that civilization has brought for him was bad things. He meets many people and they all try to influence him to change his ways to what they see is right. Pretty soon, he does not want to deal with any of it and just wants to live a life of adventure and fun. The novel begins with Hu ck under the care of Widow Douglas as "she took me for her son, and allowed that she would civilize me; but it was rough living in the house all the time." (p. 11) Huck has become so used to being free that he sees the Widow Douglas' protection solely in terms of confinement. He finds this impossible because he loses his freedom amongst "the bars and shackles of civilization." Huck feels that he belongs out under the stars where the community cannot tell him what to do. His drunken and often missing father has never paid much attention to him; his mother is dead and so, when the novel begins, Huck is not used to following any rules. At the beginning of the book, Huck is living with the Widow Douglas and her sister, Miss Watson. Both women are fairly old and are really incapable of raising a rebellious boy like Huck Finn. They attempt to make Huck into what they believe will be a better boy, as Huck says, to "sivilize" him. They do this by making Huck go to school, teach ing him about different religions, and making him act in a way that the women find socially acceptable, which means no more smoking.

The Great Depression :: American History Economy Essays

The Great Depression There had been financial panics before, and there have been some since, but never did a collapse in the market have such a devastating and long-term effect. Like a snowball, it formed and swept away the whole economy before it. Businesses closed, putting millions out of work. Banks failed by the hundreds. Wages for those who were fortunate enough to still have work fell drastically. The value of money decreased as the demand for goods declined. The international structure of world trade collapsed, and each nation sought to protect its own industrial base by imposing high tariffs on imported goods. This only made matters worse. By the fall of 1931, the international gold standard had collapsed, further damaging any hope for the recovery of trade. This started a series of currency devaluations in several countries, because these nations realized that a devalued currency posed at least a temporary advantage in the struggle to find markets for their goods. This was the start of the Great Depression of 1929 to 1940, which began and centered in the United States but spread quickly throughout the industrial world. By 1932, United States industrial output had been cut in half. One fourth of the labor force (about 15 million people) was out of work, and there was no such thing as unemployment insurance. Hourly wages had dropped by about 50 percent. Prices for agricultural products dropped to their lowest level since the Civil War. More than 90,000 businesses failed completely. For nearly every unemployed person, their were dependents who needed to be fed and housed. This massive poverty and hunger had never before been known in the United States. Former millionaires stood on street corners trying to sell apples at 5 cents apeice. Hundreds of pitiful shantytowns, called Hoovervilles in honor of the unfortunate Republican president who presided over the disaster, sprang up all over the country to shelter the homeless. People slept under "Hoover blankets" (old newspapers) in the out-of-doors. People waited in bread lines in every city, hoping for something to eat. In 1931 alone, more than 20,000 Americans committed suicide. The theme song of the time was "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?" For anyone who did have money, depression America was a shopper's paradise. A new home could be bought for less than $3,000. A man's suit costed about $10, a shirt about 50 cents, and a pair of shoes about $4.

Health Care Communication

University of Phoenix Material Health Care Communication Methods The following assignment options provide the opportunity for you to explore communication methods for different kinds of health care scenarios. The assignment options also allow you to examine the effects of HIPAA and other regulations on health care communication. Select and complete one of the following assignments: Option 1: Nursing Home Administrator Option 2: Communications Coordinator Option 1: Nursing Home AdministratorRead the following scenario: * As the administrator of a local nursing home, you have just received notification that the organization is being purchased by a national group. Because of new policies to be implemented, many of the residents will be displaced. To make the situation more challenging, some of these residents have difficulty communicating, have no local family, and have not indicated that they approve the release of their medical information. Arrangements must be made for these individu als.Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper on the different types of communication methods for the health care organization described in the scenario. Include the following in your paper: The advantages and disadvantages of using traditional, electronic, and social media for health care communication The effects of HIPAA and other regulations on the use of these media for health care communication Cite a minimum of two sources, one from the University Library and the other from the course textbooks or Electronic Reserve Readings, to support your position.Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. Option 2: Communications Coordinator Consider the following scenario: * You are the communications coordinator for a national drug manufacturer. Recently, there have been reports of significant negative effects caused by one of your medications that is used by a significant population. News reports have alleged that one of the individuals affected is a well-known public figure. You are t asked with addressing the news reports and the general public regarding this situation.Write a 1,050- to 1,400-word paper on different types of communication methods for the health care organization described in the scenario. Include the following in your paper: The advantages and disadvantages of using traditional, electronic, and social media for health care communication The effects of HIPAA and other regulations on the use of these media for health care communication Cite a minimum of two sources, one from the University Library and the other from the course textbooks or Electronic Reserve Readings, to support your position. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines. Health Care Communication The patient who is distrusting of their nurse will not be compliant or may not take part in self-care. Nurses communicate each day with patients and coworkers. Building effective communication skills in the healthcare industry can lead to optimal outcomes. The first step to communication is to determine what the message to be conveyed is and put it in a logical order. Make the message brief. Choosing your words correctly will allow the receiver to understand what you are saying. Be considerate of the patient's education, cultural, knowledge base and level of understanding.When you begin to speak be sure that you have the attention of the receiver, at the end of the conversation get feedback to ensure that your message was conveyed correctly. This paper will discuss the definition of health care communication, the relevancy of effective personal healthcare communication with other health care professionals and patients, relevancy of effective healthcare communication to health outcome s, and how the lack of effective personal and professional healthcare communications contributes to poor health outcomes. Healthcare communication can be defined as when an individual seeks information n health related issues.According to Healthy People 2010, (n. D. , overview), â€Å"Health communication encompasses the study and use of communication strategies to inform and influence individual and community decisions that enhance health. â€Å"The dissemination of information can be done via public communication or in an organizational context. Public communication refers to, â€Å"presentations, speeches, and public addresses made by individuals on health-related topics†. (Morehouse, 1998, p. 4). Health communication in the organizational context refers to how administration or staff provides information in regard to healthcare.The use of communication for healthcare issues is important to many people in that it increases awareness of healthcare risks, benefits, availab ility and support systems. Public communication utilizes pamphlets, public service announcements, etc. , to alert persons to health issues which can â€Å"encourage healthy behaviors, create awareness, change attitudes, and motivate individuals to adopt recommended behaviors. â€Å"(Healthy people 2010, n. D. , overview). When communicating with patients the nurse needs to look at the overall picture of the patient. This is his or her values, beliefs, culture and knows the health literacy of the attain.The degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. When a patient understands his or her disease process it helps that individual make the right decisions regarding their healthcare. A nurse who is able to understand a patient's values, culture, beliefs, and incorporate them into the patients care builds a sense of trust between the patient and nurse. Communicating wi th other healthcare professionals also requires effective healthcare communication.Some nurses may not know their role responsibilities. As a charge nurse on the floor you can explain to that nurse what her role is. The charge nurse will need to be accurate in the information she provides, consistent, reliable in that the content is correct and up to date. When positive, caring relationships establish between patients and caregiver, patients report a greater ability to cope effectively with their illness and greater compliance with health care regiments. â€Å"(Morehouse &Northouse, 1998, up. 79-80). Patients fear the unknown.Being in a hospital can be scary if they do not know what is happening to them. A nurse who speaks to a patient regarding his plan of care and shows empathy will give that patient a sense that he or she cares. A patient who understands his disease process will be able to make sound decisions, discuss treatment with family and cope with the situation. According to Williwaw, (2007), â€Å"There are five elements in the process of communication; the sender, the receiver, the message, the medium and internal and external static. â€Å"A problem with any of these elements can distort the meaning of what is trying to be conveyed.

Preparation and Reactions of Boric Acid

To prepare boric acid from sodium deteriorate (borax) To carry out tests on the prepared sample of boric acid To study the physical and chemical properties of boric acid Introduction: Boron is an element in the p-block of the periodic table. It has the electron configuration of 1s22s22p1 and is in group 3 or coup 13 (PUPAS classification). In nature, it consists of two isotopes BIB (19. 6%) and BIB (80. 4%). Boron is bonded to the oxygen in nature. The important sources of Boron are borax and kerning.Boron sides and their derivatives are technologically important and are relatively inexpensive to produce. Boron oxides is very difficult to crystallite and normally exists in a glassy state (d=l . CACM-1). Molten boron oxide has a high melting point of 450 degree Celsius that is readily dissolves metal oxides to form colored borate glasses as one of the main commercial uses of boric oxide. Particularly, borosilicate glasses find wide applications in glassblowing and the production of gl ass objects. On top of the boric acid, it is also known as hydrogen borate as a weak monobasicLewis acid. At room temperature, it exists as white powder or colorless crystals with a chemical formula of HOBBS or B(OH)3. Apparatus and materials: ;Sodium deteriorate ;Concentrated hydrochloric acid ;Concentrated sulfuric acid ;Methyl red indicator ;Imitation ;Beaker ;Methanol ;Distilled water ;Electric heater ;Test tube ;Test tube rack ;Glass rod ;Suction funnel ;Suction pump ;Filter flask ;Filter paper ;Spatula ;Watch glass ;Splint Procedures: 1 . About log of sodium deteriorate (borax) is dissolved in CACM of water in a beaker. 2.The mixture is boiled and CACM of concentrated hydrochloric is added into the solution. 3. The beaker is immersed into a container with ice and water to cool down the temperature. 4. After the solution is cooled down, the boric acid is crystallized out by using the Boucher funnel, 2 layers of filter papers, suction pump and a filtering flask. 5. The remaining crystals in the beaker and on the glass rod are washed well with ice-cold water for a few times and filtered off with the Boucher funnel. 6. The yield is left aside to be dried and the weight is measured and recorded.Test 1 1. A little boric acid is inserted into a test tube. 2. Small amount of distilled water is added to dissolve the acid in the test tube. 3. A drop of methyl red indicator is added. 4. Test tube is labeled as A. 5. Steps 1 to 3 are repeated again by replacing the acid with the imitation and the test tube is labeled as B. 6. Half of each solution in test tube A and B are mixed in a test tube labeled as C. 7. All results and observation are recorded. -rest 2 1. A small amount of boric acid crystals is inserted into a Tyrant boiling tube. 2.A little ethanol is added into the boiling tube Just to cover the acid. 3. Some concentrated sulfuric acid is then added into the tube. 4. The boiling tube is held by a test tube holder and heated on a Bunsen burner. 5. The vapor produced is ignited by using a burning wooden splinter. 6. All observations are recorded. Discussion: First and foremost, we managed to yield 4. Egg of HOBBS. According to our calculation, the theoretical mass that we are supposed to obtain is 6. Egg. This means that our percentage of yield is 74. 64%. According to Vogue's Textbook ofPractical Organic Chemistry, yields around 100% are called quantitative, whereas yields above 70% are good. This means that our team did quite a great Job. Boric acid is a Lewis acid that is able to interact with the water molecules to give out hydrogen ions and dehydrogenation ion in the solution. In test 1, the methyl red indicator is used to determine the acidity of the each solution in different test tubes. The indicator can show the pH range at around 4. 4 – 6. 2. At pH 4. 4, the solution with the indicator will appear to be in red in color and whereas at pH 6. , it will show allow. On test tube A, solution turns from colorless to pink color . This shows that boric acid is a relatively weak acid with pH around 4-5. Next on test tube B, the methyl red indicator is added into a imitation solution. The color of the solution seemed to remain unchanged. It is colorless. In fact, the solution is supposed to change from colorless to yellow. Perhaps, we accidentally made some mistakes by adding the wrong reactant in the experiment or we were a bit of too rush deciding the color of the solution without looking at it carefully.Thirdly, when we mix both he solutions from A and B, an intense pink solution is formed. This means that a stronger acid is formed. It can be simply explained by the stronger acid complex formed in between imitation and boric acid. The pH is less than 4 for sure. According to the test 2 results, a beautiful green flame is formed when we ignite the vapor with a burning wooden splinter. By mixing the alcohol (methanol) and acid (conch HOSTS) will create ester (CHI)BIBB. An alcohol flame itself is usually, ord inarily colorless. The presence of the green in the flame is indicating the ester formed contains boron element.A strong acid like concentrated sulfuric acid is needed to propionate the HOBBS and this will create the electroplate which attacks the O atom of the methanol. Without the existence of a strong acid, an intense green flame might not be formed. This is because ester may not formed and even if it is formed, it will exist in equilibrium with the alcohol & boric acid. Thus, making the green flame not really intense. There are a few precautionary steps that should be taken during this experiment. Firstly, suction pump used in test 1 is powerful and thus, 2 layers of filter papers are seed to cover the holes of the Boucher funnel.From our experience, the suction pump will cause the filter paper to be torn if only a piece of filter paper is used. Furthermore, we shall always pour the solution slowly on the rod, so that the solution will flow slowly without causing any wastage. By using this method, we can make sure the crystals are accumulated in the middle of the filter paper and it eases our Job to take out the filter paper from the funnel. On top of the safety, all acids are corrosive. In this experiment, we use concentrated hydrochloric acid and concentrated elliptic acid.We shall wear gloves and handle them with extra care to prevent and avoid any accident to occur. In addition, a tyrant boiling tube is used instead of a test tube in test 2 (flame test). A boiling tube can withstand strong heat without breakage. Test 2 (flame test) has to be carried out in the fume hood as the vapor released from the boiling tube is toxic. Therefore, we shall remain our distance with the vapor, although the green flame is beautiful. Last but not least, we shall discard the excess boric acid into the waste bottle instead of basin as to prevent water pollution.