Exploration of a Journal Article in Sociology Essay

In this paper I will be discussing the type of article being explored. What type of research is involved in this article? I will be doing a summary of this article to discover what the main findings are. Explain how this article fits into the field of sociology. Discuss which chapter applies to this article. Explain how a journal article differs for a newspaper article, and what is alike. Type of article This article is a review of existing research that was conducted. It discusses what type of research was conducted. The reason why the research was done, and what was the outcome of the research that was performed (Playing hooky 2011). Type of Research There was various types of research conducted for this article. A study was provided by Youth Advocates Programs, Inc. there was a behavioral experiment done on three types of behavior that involved positive, negative, and no reinforcement. A questionnaire survey was also conducted on a group of students, and there were observation studies done (Playing hooky 2011). Summary Student truancy is a serious problem that faces the adolescent youth. This problem is caused by a number of variables. How involved the parents are in a child’s life. Weather the child is involved in any after school activities. Is there a history of alcohol, or drug abuse? Some of these factors can be caused at school. Some of the problems could be bullying, having nobody to turn to with their problems (Playing hooky 2011). Major Findings Bullying In one of the case studies conducted along with other variables bullying was found to be a significant cause of student absenteeism. The study showed that students would avoid school, because they feared being victimized. These students felt like they did not have a safe place to go. They had no one to talk to about their situation. They felt like they did not have anything to look forward to as long as they were being bullied (Playing hooky 2011). Other Factors With all of the other factors combined such as family environment, living situation, community involvement, alcohol, and substance abuse. These factors did very little to contribute to students being absent from school (Playing hooky 2011). How where they supported The research that was presented was conducted by a variety of methods. There was research from a questionnaire study. Research was conducted that involved a behavioral experiment. Research was also presented by a youth Adolescent group (Playing hooky 2011). Fits into Field of Sociology This article fits into the field on sociology, because it deals with sociological theory. The sociology theory that it deals with is the Social-Conflict Approach. It talks about the problems facing youth like drugs, and alcohol (Playing hooky 2011). Identify Chapter of Textbook The chapter that this article covers is chapter twenty. This chapter deals with education, and how different areas of the country receive better education those other areas. This chapter talks about how truancy can lead to other problems down the road in life (Playing hooky 2011). Difference between Types of Articles Scholarly articles are reviewed by other peers with expertise in the field. Magazines and newspapers are written for the majority of the population. The thing that is similar is they all have current information (Playing hooky 2011). Conclusion In this paper we discussed the type of article. We discussed what type of research was involved. We gave a summary of the article, what were some findings, and how they were supported. We provided information on how it relates to our textbook, and sociology. Described how this article is different from magazines and newspapers. References Playing Hooky†: Examining Factors that Contribute to Adolescent Truancy. (2011). Sociological Viewpoints, 2715-23

Gender and Leadership: Literature Review

Gender and Leadership Literature Review 1. Introduction Leadership theories and literature describe what leaders should do and on the other hand literature also exists on what leaders actually do, the former are prescriptive and the latter are descriptive (Bratton et al; 2005). Leadership style is a relatively consistent set of behaviours that characterise a leader (DuBrin; 1995). The main leadership theories encompass the trait, behaviour, contingency, power influence, and gender influence and exchange leadership perspectives. This paper focuses on transformational leadership and thus will detail the theory underpinning transformational leadership vis a vis gender differences in leadership. A brief discussion on Leadership effectiveness as it relates to gender and Leadership styles will also be shown. In a study of gender and leadership styles it is important to highlight the deeper foundations that have a bearing on why men and women may lead differently. One of those causes has been found to be culture; a brief review of this construct and its’ bearing on gender has also been outlined in this section. . 2Gender and Leadership Swanepoel et al (2003) define gender as a â€Å"demographic factor that may influence Human Resources Management in organisations and which can lead to similar problems of discrimination in the workplace†. DuBrin (1995) state that the terms sex and gender arouse controversy both scientifically and politically. He further states that the term gender refers to perception s about the differences among males and females whilst sex differences refer to actual tangible differences such as the fact that the mean height of men is greater than that of women. The terms gender and sex are, however, often used interchangeably. Task and interpersonal styles in leadership research are obviously relevant to gender because of the stereotypes people have about sex differences in these aspects of behaviour (Ashmore, Del Boca, & Wohlers, 1986; Eagly & Steffen, 1984). Men are believed to be more self-assertive and motivated to control their environment (e. g. , more aggressive, independent, self-sufficient, forceful, and dominant). In contrast, women are believed to be more selfless and concerned with others (e. . , more kind, helpful, understanding, warm, sympathetic, and aware of others' feelings). Although democratic versus autocratic style is a different (and narrower) aspect of leader behaviour than task-oriented and interpersonally oriented styles (see Bass, 1981), the democratic- autocratic dimension also relates to gender stereotypes, because one component of these stereotypes is that men are relatively dominant and controlling (i. e. , mor e autocratic and directive than women. Bratton et al (2005) highlight a study conducted by Schein (1975) who extended the gender issue in Leadership further with the results confirming that to both the male and female managers who participated in the study; being a successful manager meant being masculine in terms of stereotypical behaviours (Bratton et al, 2005). Wajcman in Bratton, Grint and Nelson stated, â€Å"Some leadership behaviours are interpreted differently depending on the gender of the leader. For example, a particular action seen as â€Å"firm† when displayed by a man (e. , banging the table top with the hand) might be termed â€Å"hysterical† when displayed by a woman. † (Bratton et al; 189). Women are said to find participative management more natural than men because they feel more comfortable interacting with people and that their natural sensitivity encourages group members to participate in decision- making (Dubrin; 1995). Yet as women move up the corporate ladder, their identifica tion with the male model of corporate success becomes important and may even reject the few feminine traits that they may earlier have endorsed. Bass (1998) in his review of studies other than his own concludes that there is no consistent pattern of male-female differences in leadership styles. Modern theory proposes that women lead differently than men (Bratton et al; 2005). This theory tends to promote the idea that women have the characteristics and skill that are necessary for effective leadership and that these skills and characteristics include a more interactional leadership style, the ability to build consensus, a tendency to empower others, and a greater ability to nurture others (Bratton et al; 2005). Robbins (date) in Swanepoel et al (2003) points out that the similarities between women and men tend to outweigh the differences, and that these differences suggest that men are comfortable with a directive style while female managers prefer a democratic style (Swanepoel et al; 2003). The gender perspective argues that women leaders have an interactive, people centered, participative management style. Women leaders are associated with consensus building and power sharing. Views in favour of the gender perspective advocate for equal opportunities at the work place; full utilization of women to utilize available human resources; acknowledgement of the â€Å"special contribution† women can make the work place due to their leadership style and alternate approaches to situations (Bratton, et al; 2005). Swanepoel et al (2003) state that in general women follow a transformational leadership style, which emphasises followers, consensus, and the use of charisma, personal reference and personal contact to enhance interpersonal relations and to influence followers. Men, however prefer a more direct style where job performance is seen as transactional and they also tend to use formal position, power and authority to control people. To tackle the question of whether men and women have different leadership styles, Eagly and Johnson conducted a 1990 review of leadership studies. Notably, although lab studies viewed women as both interpersonally oriented and democratic and men to be both task-oriented and autocratic, field studies indicated a difference on only one of those dimensions: The omen were found to be more democratic, encouraging participation, and the men were more autocratic, directing performance. http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss A 2003 meta-analysis extended those results and indicated that women were slightly more likely than men to have the transformational leadership style. Women also appeared to reward good performance more than men, a very positive part of transactional leadership. Men were more likely to criticize subo rdinates and be less hands-on, styles found to be ineffective. http: www. psychologymatters. rg/womanboss. However, psychologists caution against concluding that women or men have some sort of natural or inherent leadership style. There is a possibility that women, knowing how negatively people respond to â€Å"bossy† women, soften their approach. Additionally, the research shows only averages, or tendencies, for each sex. Some men will have more â€Å"feminine† management styles; some women will have more â€Å"masculine† management styles. (http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) Eagly's advice is to be careful about the power of perception. She says that even though the research found some differences in leadership style, â€Å"the sex differences are small because the leader role itself carries a lot of weight in determining people's behaviour. † She concludes that women are in some senses better leaders than men but suffer the disadvantage of leadership roles having a masculine image, especially in some settings and at higher levels. Stripping organizational leadership of its masculine aura would allow psychologists to get a clearer picture of any true differences between men and women. http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) Eagly and Johnson highlighted the following summaries from their review;† The preponderance of available evidence is that no consistently clear pattern of differences can be discerned in the supervisory style of female as compared to male leaders† (Bass, 198 l, p. 499);†There is as yet no research evidence that makes a case for sex differences in either leadership aptitude or style† (Kanter, 1977a, p. 199); â€Å"In general, comparative research indicates that there are few differences in the leadership styles of female and male designated leaders† (Bartol & Martin, 1986, 19. 278). However Quantitative reviews of this research have established the presence rather than the absence of overall sex differences (Eagly, 1987; Eagly & Wood, in press; Hall, 1984). These differences, although typically not large, tend to be comparable in magnitude to most other findings reported in social psychological research. (http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) 3. 3 Cultural Dimension – the link to gender Several theories have been put forward to account for gender differences including biological differences, differences in early childhood and the fulfilment of culturally prescribed gender role expectations. Thomas and Bendixen (2000) refer to Thomas and Ely (1996) who capture the essence of cultural issues in organisations when they state that employees make choices at work based on their cultural background (Thomas and Bendixen; 2000). It is thus important for organisations to understand these values that employees bring into the workplace (Thomas and Bendixen; 2000). Thomas and Bendexin (2000) also lean on Trompenaars (1993) who identified different levels of culture, noting that national culture is at the highest level whilst organisational culture is at the next level down in the hierarchy of culture. Gender related differences in leadership styles may have a foundation in culture. Schein (1990) defines organisational culture as â€Å"a pattern of basic assumptions, invented, discovered, or developed by a given group as it learns to cope with its problems of external adaptation and internal integration, that has worked well enough to be considered valid and, therefore is to be taught to new members as the correct way to perceive, think and feel in relation to those problems. † (Schein, 1990; 111). He further identifies three levels at which culture manifests itself as observable artefacts, values, and basic underlying assumptions (Schein, 1990). Observable artefacts are things that one sees or feels upon entering an organisation. This includes the dress code, the physical layout, the smell and feel of the place to the more tangible things such as the annual reports and company records (Schein, 1990). â€Å"Through interviews, questionnaires, or survey instruments one can study a culture’s espoused and documented values, norms, ideologies, charters, and philosophies. (Schein, 1990; 112). More direct questioning can reveal the more the underlying assumptions, which â€Å"determine perceptions, thought processes, feelings and behaviour† (Schein, 1990; 112) For Edgar Schein (1985) the transformation that matters is a change in the corporate culture. What do leaders pay attention to, measure, and control sends symbolic signals to the rest of the corporate culture. Ho fstede is a central figure in the development of literature on the cultural construct in leadership (Dickson, Hartog & Mitchelson; 2003). He advances the idea that cultural differences are initially encountered as differences in shared values with values being defined as tendencies to prefer certain states of affairs over others (Dickson et al; 2003). Hofstede (1980,2001) described initially four culture dimensions; individualism-collectivism; masculinity-femininity; uncertainty avoidance; and power distance and a fifth dimension, future orientation was added in later work (Dickson et al; 2003). Power distance is â€Å"the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organisations within a country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally†. Hofstede (in Dickson, Harthog & Mitchelson, 2003, pg 737). Uncertainty avoidance is defined as the extent to which the members of a society feel threatened by uncertain or unknown situations (Dickson et al p. 740). Individualism versus collectivism ranges from societies in which the ties between individuals are â€Å"loose† and people are expected to take care of themselves and close family only to societies that are â€Å"tight† where people expect their â€Å"in-group to look after them and they do so in return (Dickson, et al. 2003). Masculinity versus femininity ranges from societies in which social gender roles are clearly distinct to societies in which social gender roles overlap (Dickson, et al. ; 2003). This dimension has a direct bearing on gender issues in that societal roles determine gender roles and these ultimately have a bearing on the leadership style that one practices, In her exploration of African management van der Colff (2003) uses the African tree concept advanced by Mbigi (1996). According to this concept the main stem underpinning all the most important values of African History can be traced through ubuntu, which is the key to all African values and involves collectivism (van der Colff; 2003). â€Å"Traditionally African leadership is built on participation, responsibility and spiritual authority†. (van der Colff; 2003,258). Nussbaum (1996) in van der Colff (2003) is quoted as saying that African leadership requires transparency, accountability and legitimacy. The only way they can be legitimate is to be trustworthy themselves before they can expect trust from employees (van der Colff; 2003). Bass (1997) has argued that transformational leadership is universally applicable. He proposed, that regardless of culture, transformational leaders inspire followers to transcend their own self-interests for the good of the group or organization, followers become motivated to expend greater effort than would would usually be expected. While acknowledging the universality of transformational leadership, Bass recognized that cultural differences will contribute to differences at the individual level of measurement. He stated â€Å"Variation occurs because the same concepts may contain specific thought processes, beliefs, implicit understandings, or behaviors in one culture not another† (p. 132). This raises the question of the universality of gender differences in transformational leadership. Although there have been several studies on gender differences in America, unknown is the extent that these findings are replicated in other cultures. This study will show some findings of transformational leadership with a Zimbabwean sample. 3. 4. Transformational Leadership theory From a broad perspective, leadership styles can be transformational and transactional; a transformational leadership style is one that seeks to influence behaviour through inspirational and motivational means. Transactional leadership styles use contingency factors such as rewards and punishment to influence and affect behaviour (Densten, Gray & Sarros, 2002). The transactional leadership theories emphasise transactions between leaders and their followers. Transactional leaders get things done by giving contingent rewards such as recognition and pay increases. These leaders usually manage by exception to monitor performance and take corrective action to remedy poor performance. They motivate followers by clarifying role and task requirements (Swanepoel; 2003). Transformational leadership was first coined by Burns (1978) and further developed by Bass (1985, 1998) and Yammarino & Bass, (1990) with research accumulating in the area over the past fourteen years. Transformational leadership is defined in terms of four inter-related factors: idealised influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual consideration. Taken together, these sub-types are believed to represent the most effective attitudes and behaviours a leader can have. (Panopoulos; 1998). The transformational characteristic of idealised influence is based on earlier conceptualisations of charisma (e. g. House, 1977). The charismatic leader is able to inspire respect and higher order motivation in followers. The leader is able to communicate a sense of power and confidence in higher values and beliefs. The charismatic leader possesses a clear set of idealised qualities with which followers might wish to be associated (Panapoulos; 1998). The leader who provides inspirational motivation to followers is likely to speak optimistically about the future, articulating a compelling vision of what must be achieved. He motivates followers by his/her own enthusiasm. The leader is therefore not merely a distant charismatic source of referent power but is also able to directly and effectively translate his/her own enthusiasm to followers (Panapoulos; 1998). The leader must also provide intellectual stimulation to followers. In providing intellectual stimulation, the leader is said to orient ollowers to awareness of problems, to their own thoughts and imagination, and to the recognition of their beliefs and values (Yammarino & Bass, 1990 in Panapoulos; 1998). Furthermore, by providing an intellectually stimulating environment, transformational leaders are able to foster the development of creative solutions to problems, which stand in the way of organisational goal attainment. Panapoulos (1998) states that from a humanistic persp ective, the most outstanding component of transformational leadership is the leader’s individualised consideration of his/her followers. According to Bass and his colleagues (Yammarino, Spangler & Bass, 1993 in Panapoulos; 1998), a leader’s use of individual consideration is a crucial element in followers’ achievement of their full potential through a close consideration of their developmental needs. In providing individual consideration, the leader is not only aware of and sensitive to the current needs of followers, but is also aiming to elevate those needs to a higher level (in combination with the use of the other factors of transformational leadership). This can be done by coaching and mentoring, as well as by setting examples and tasks, which are developmentally consistent with the needs of each individual (Panapoulos; 1998). Gender differences in transformational leadership – A review of past research A number of authors have speculated on possible gender differences in the use of transformational leadership (e. g. , Avolio & Bass, 1988; Bycio, Hackett, & Allen, 1995), however, there has been a notable lack of evidence (Bass & Avolio, 1994). Bass contends there are none. Yet, other studies show that women develop a â€Å"feminine style of leadership,† which is characterized by caring and nurturance, and men adopt a â€Å"masculine style of leadership†, which is dominating and task- oriented (Eagly, Makhijani, & Klonsky, 1992). In a study of 345 metropolitan branch managers Carless (1998) found that: Female managers are more likely than male managers to report that they take an interest in the personal needs of their staff, encourage self-development, use participative decision-making, give feedback and publicly recognize team achievements. In summary, female managers report they use more interpersonal-oriented leadership behaviors compared to male managers (Carless, 1998). The review by Eagly and Johnson was the first systematic and comprehensive analysis of gender differences in leadership. Earlier reviews (e. g. , Bartol & Martin, 1986; Dobbins & Platz, 1986) were based on limited samples and were criticized because they failed to specify the selection criteria for inclusion in the review. Eagly and Johnson's (1990) meta-analysis of gender differences in leadership revealed mixed findings. An analysis of task-oriented style and interpersonal oriented style showed that women and men did not differ on these dimensions in organizational studies. Differences were noted for studies in which the sample did not formally hold a leadership position (experimental and assessment studies). On the other hand, significant gender differences were reported in the use of democratic leadership in organizational, experimental and assessment studies. Women used a more participative and inclusive style of leadership and men were more likely to use a directive, controlling style. Carless, 1998). Studies which have used the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ; Bass, 1985b; Avolio, et al. , 1995) to examine gender differences in leadership style have reported conflicting findings. Bass, Avolio and Atwater (1996) examined gender differences in leader behaviour with three samples. Sample I consisted of 79 female and 150 male upper-level leaders who worked for American hi-tec, Fortune 50 f irms. Subordinate ratings of leadership (N = 877) indicated that female leaders were rated higher on all transformational leader behaviors compared to male leaders. These findings are consistent with an earlier study of leaders in the Roman Catholic church (Druskat, 1994). Sample 2, consisted of first-level supervisors employed by a number of organizations, 38 of the leaders were female and 58 were male. Subordinates (N = 271) observed no gender differences for the subscales of Intellectual Stimulation and Inspirational Motivation, however, females were reported as higher on the subscales of Charisma and Individual Consideration. Sample 2 findings were consistent with an earlier study reported by Bass and Avolio (1994). Generally, in studies that report significant differences between females and males the effect sizes are very small and it is therefore argued that there is no practical differences between female and male leaders (Yammarino, Dubinsky, Comer & Jolson, 1997). In the third sample of 154 female leaders and 131 male leaders who worked for nonprofitable organizations (e. g. health care), subordinates (N = 913) reported no differences in the leader behavior of females and male leaders. Similary, Komives (1991) found no difference between female and male manager self-ratings of transformational leadership, with the exception of Intellectual Stimulation; women managers were found to be significantly higher than their male counterparts(Carless,1998). According to the gender-centred perspective, individual attributes vary according to their gender (Betz & Fitzgerald, 1987; Hennig & Jardin, 1977; Loden, 1985). This approach proposes that, women develop a feminine style of leadership, which is characterized by caring and nurturance, and men adopt a masculine style of leadership, which is dominating and taskoriented (Eagly, Makhijani, & Klonsky, 1992). Similarly, the social-role theory (Eagly, 1987) proposes that individuals behave in accordance with societal expectations about their gender role. Through the socialization process, people learn to conform to cultural expectations about their gender role. The feminine model of leadership includes typical transformational leadership behaviors, for example, participatory decision-making, collaboration and quality interpersonal relationships between leader and subordinate (Eagly, Karau, Miner & Johnson, 1994; Helgesen, 1990; Loden, 1985). Hence, it could be expected that females and males may differ in their use of certain transformational leadership behaviors(Carless,1998). The structural perspective suggests that the organizational role the individual occupies is more important then the gender of the individual (Kanter, 1977). Within organizations clear guidelines exist for the expected performance of managers, hence the major issue for managers is meeting the organization's expectations regarding effective management performance, not conforming to culturally defined gender roles. Assuming female and male managers occupy the same role within an organization and have equivalent access to status and power there is no reason to expect gender differences in leadership styles (Eagly, Karau, & Makhijani, 1995). This suggests that when examining gender differences in leadership behavior it is important to compare women and men who occupy the same position in the organization and are at the same level in the organizational hierarchy. (Carless ,1998). Eagly and her colleagues (Eagly & Johnson, 1990; Eagly, et al. , 1995) suggest that gender differences vary according to the extent of gender congeniality. Gender congeniality is described as the â€Å"fit between gender roles and particular leadership roles† (Eagley, et al. , 1995, p. 29). It reflects an individual's interest in a specific leadership role and appraisal of their competence to perform that role. In some organizations, such as the military, leadership positions are defined in more masculine terms than feminine. Thus, leadership positions in these organizations would be described as congenial to men. In others, such as education and nursing, leadership is defined in more feminine ways and therefore could be described as conge nial to women(Carless, 1998). 3. 5Effective Leadership Since women began to climb the corporate ladder, authorities have asked if they have what it takes to lead groups and organizations. According to the research, while men and women are equally effective in some settings, more often effectiveness depends on the fit between the setting and management gender. For example, women's typically more mentoring, coaching style is more favorably received in female-dominated professions; men's more typically â€Å"command and control† style is well received in male-dominated professions. http: www. sychologymatters. org/womanboss . In essence therefore, all things being equal, men and women are equally effective. But given varied work settings and a workplace whose top managers are still more likely to be male, all things rarely are equal. For example, women are slightly more likely to be â€Å"transformational† leaders, serving as role models, helping employees develop their skills, and motivating them to be dedicated and creative. That approach may actually be more effective in today's less hierarchical organizations. But not all workplaces are alike: The participatory style may backfire in traditional male settings such as the military or organized sports. Conversely, the command-and-control style more typical of men may backfire in a social-service agency or retail outlet. (http:www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) A 1995 review by Alice Eagly, PhD, Steven Karau, PhD and Mona Makhijani, PhD, of more than 80 different studies found that when aggregated over the organizational and laboratory experimental studies in the sample, male and female leaders were equally effective. The leaders or managers assessed in the studies were typically first-level or first-line supervisors, with a strong minority of studies looking at mid-level managers or managers of mixed or unknown levels. The analysis also showed that women were more effective leaders in female-dominated or female-oriented settings, and that men were more effective leaders in male-dominated or male-oriented settings. Thus working in a leadership role congruent with one's gender gives the perception that one is more effective. (http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) Theories of transformational leadership (e. . , Bass, 1985a; Conger & Kanungo, 1988; Kouzes & Posner, 1987; Sashkin & Burke; 1990; Trice & Beyer, 1986) have focused on identifying a range of leadership behaviors which contribute to effective performance. Although these theories differ in the leadership behaviors they distinguish, there exists a number of common themes. Transformational leaders articulate a vision, use lateral or non traditional thinking, encourage individual development, give regular feedback, use participative decision-making, and promote a cooperative and trusting work environment. http: www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss) Densten, et al. ; (2002) emphasise that successful leaders are able to build a strong corporate culture, are truth-tellers, can see the invisible, that is, spot potential winners or identify trends before their rivals or customers, are fast learners and good communicators. Leaders are expected to anticipate future events before they occur and have a vision to overcome uncertainties. Managers on the other hand are expected to run current operations effectively and efficiently (Bratton, et al. ; 2005). Darling in Swanepoel, Erasmus et al argues â€Å"a real test of successful leadership in management lies in giving, to the greatest extent possible, opportunities to others within the situational context of the firm. One does not have to be brilliant to be a good leader, but you have to understand people- how they feel, what makes them tick, and the most effective ways to influence them. †(Swanepoel, Erasmus, Van Wyk, Schenk; 359) DuBrin (1995) state that in order to be a leader one has to make a difference and to facilitate positive changes. They further state that the common characteristic of effective leaders is their ability to inspire and stimulate others to achieve worthwhile goals (Dubrin; 1995). Drucker (2004) outlines eight practices followed by effective executives. He says that they ask, â€Å"What needs to be done? † and â€Å"What is right for the enterprise†. Effective executives also develop action plans, they take responsibility for decisions and communicating, focus on opportunities rather than problems, run productive meetings and focus on â€Å"we† rather than â€Å"I† (Drucker; 2004). Drucker (2004) further explains that the first two practices gives them the knowledge they need, the next four help to convert this knowledge to effective action and the last two ensure that the whole organization feels responsible and accountable. Researchers are especially interested in the question of whether a management style more associated with women – a less authoritarian, more nurturing approach – will â€Å"click† as the workplace generally shifts to more team-oriented structures that thrive under a less directive approach. REFERENCES Ashforth BE & Saks M. 996: Socialization Tactics: Longitudinal Effects on Newcomer Adjustment, Academy of Management Journal, 39, 147-178 Alvesson M & BillingYD. 1997:Understanding gender in organisations. London: Sage Publications Ltd. Bass, B. M. (1985). Leadership and performance beyond expectation. New York: Free Press. Bass, B. M. (1990). From transactional to transformational leadership: Learning to share the vision. Organizational Dynamics, (Winter): 19-31. Bass, B. , & Avolio, B. (1994). Shatter the glass ceiling: Women may make better managers. Human Resource Management, 33, 549-560. Bass, B. , Avolio, B. , & Atwater, L. (1996). The transformational and transactional leadership of men and women. Applied Psychology: An International Review, 45, 5-34. Bennis W. 1992: On the Leading Edge of Change, Executive Excellence v9n4? Spacing? Check your referencing guidelines (Apr), p5-6 Bloodgood M, Bolino MC, Lester SW & Turnley WH. 2002 Not Seeing Eye to eye: differences in supervisor and subordinate perceptions of and attributions for psychological contract breach, Journal of Occupational Psychology 23 (2); 39 Bendixen M & Thomas A. 000: The Management Implications of Ethnicity in South Africa, Journal of International Business Studies, 31, 3,507-519 Blunt P& Jones ML. 1996: Exploring the limits of Western leadership theory in East Asia and Africa, Personnel Review, 26,1/2,6-23 Bratton J, Grint K & Nelson DL: 2005. Organisational Leadership: Ohio: South-Western Thomson Bronwell J. 1992: â€Å"Women in hospitality management†. In Kay C & Monarz E. 2005: Lodging man agement success: Personal antecedents, achievements, KSAs and situational factors, Hospitality Management, 25: 324-341. Butterfield, A. and Grinnel, J. P. (1999). Re-viewing gender, leadership, and managerial behavior: Do three decades of research tell us anything? In G. N. Powell (Ed. ), Handbook of gender and work. Thousand Oaks, Calif. : Sage Carless SA. 1998: Gender differences in transformational leadership: an examination of superior, leader, and subordinate perspectives. Sex Roles: A Journal of Research, Carli LL. and Eagly A H. 2001: Gender, hierarchy, and leadership: an introduction. Journal of Social Issues, 57, 629-636. Colff L. 003: Leadership lessons from the African tree, Journal of Management Decision, 41(3), 257-261 Cooper DR. & Schindler PS. 2003: Business Research Methods: New York: McGraw Hill Denston LI, Gray J & Sarros JC. 2002: Leadership and its impact on organisational culture, International Journal of Business Studies, 10 (2): 1-26 Denton. M & Vloeberghs D. 2003: Leadership challenges for organisations in the New South Africa, Journal of Leadership & Organisational Development , 24(2), 84-95 Dickson MW, Hartog DN & Mitchelson JK. 003: Research on leadership in a cross-cultural context: Making progress, and raising new questions, The Leadership Quarterly 14, 729-768 Drucker PF. 2004: What makes an effective executive, Harvard Business Review, 59-63 DuBrin AJ. 1995: Leadership: Research Findings, Practice, and Skills: Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company Eagly AH. Johannesen-Schmidt MC. & van Engen M. 2003: Transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership styles: A meta-analysis comparing women and men. Psychological Bulletin, 95, pp. 569-591. Eagly AH. and Johannesen-Schmidt M. 001: The leadership styles of women and men. Journal of Social Issues, 57, pp. 781-797. Eagly AH. & Johnson BT. 1990: â€Å"Gender and Leadership Style: A Meta-analysis†, Psychological Bulletin 108, pp. 233-256 Eagly AH. Karau SJ and Makhijani MG. 1995: Gender and the effectiveness of leaders: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 117, pp. 125-145. Hogg MA. 2001: â€Å"A Social Identity theory of Leadership†, personality and social psychology review, 5, 3, 184-200 Javidan M & House RJ. 2001: Cultural acumen for the global manager: Lessons from project GLOBE. Organisational Dynamics, 29(4), 289-305 Jung DI, Bass BM, & Sosik J J. 1995: Bridging leadership and culture: A theoretical consideration of transformational leadership and collectivistic cultures. Journal of Leadership Studies, 2, 3-18 Panapoulos F. No date: Gender differences in transformational leadership among the field leaders of New South Wales Police students: http:www. aic. gov. au/conferences/policewomen2/Panapoulos Accessed on 2006/06/5 Rosener J. 1990: â€Å"Ways Women Lead† Harvard Business Review 68, pp. 119-125. Rousseau DM, Tijoriwala AS. 998: Assessing psychological contracts: issues, alternatives and measures, organisational culture, Journal of Organisational Behaviour, 19:679-695 Schein E. 1990: â€Å"Organisational Culture† American Psychologist , 45: 109-119 Swanepoel B, Erasmus B, Van Wyk M & Schenk H. 2003: South African Human Resource Management: Theory & Practice. 3rd Edition. Cape Town: Juta & Company Unknown. No date: When the boss is a woman, Men and women are equally effective in settings that match gender roles:http:www. psychologymatters. org/womanboss. Accessed on 2006/08/25

An analysis of television chat shows Essay Example for Free

An analysis of television chat shows Essay Television chat shows are probably the favourite genre of the majority of daytime viewers, with the schedule full to bursting point with them, there are few channels that show fewer than two chat shows on a daily basis. There are few times when you can switch on your television and the screen not be filled with the smiling faces of a chat show host and his guests. There are a wide range of chat show styles but they all conform to the same basic conventions. The conventions are that the host is famous and often comes from a journalistic background and their show is named after them. The guests are famous people and come on to the shows to promote themselves etc. the set is basic with just a few chairs and sometimes a table and also there is an audience who are in the studio watching the show live. In the traditional style chat shows these conventions are followed as if they were law. In the newer forms of chat shows these rules aren’t followed as closely. Although they have a host, guest and audience there set is not basic and is full of props such as computers and fake plants to add effect. The purpose of this assignment is to analyse and explore a traditional chat show in the style of ‘Parkinson’ and a ‘new-age’ style chat show in the form of ‘Friday Nights All Wright’ Michael Parkinson is assuredly the finest example of a traditional British television chat show host. His show ‘Parkinson’ is well respected, highly respective and conservative and is produced by the B. B. C. his reputation exceeds him and this is echoed by the shows status. The way that Parkinson dresses also reflects the style and status of the show. As well as the dress code of the show, the title sequence is also very sophisticated. The title sequence is an integral part of the show because it is the first thing that is seen by the viewers, so it will have to display the style and reputation of the show as well as appeal to the more mature viewers which is the shows intended audience. The title sequence for ‘Parkinson’ consists of numerous still shots of previous guests such as Billy connel1y and Heather Mills-McCartney smiling and looking relaxed and comfortable. Some of the shots are posed but the majority look as if they were taken during the show, this gives the audience the idea the guests are normal people and that the show is in a very relaxing environment. As the title sequence comes to an end we are presented with a montage of celebrities faces which them form a real still shot of Parkinson’s face and this then goes in to a dissolve and into the show. The music used to accompany the opening title sequence is classy, cheerful and has a big band feeling, which I think would appeal to the viewers of the show because generally the people who watch the B. B. C are from the older generation and are therefore more conservative than the viewers of I. T. V. Parkinson’s entrance is stylish and grand. He enters at the top of a staircase to the theme music from the show and walks slowly to his seat; this grand entrance is a convention of a typical television chat show. It is at this point that it becomes clear who is in charge of the show. Compared with this grand entrance the entrances of Parkinson’s guests are mediocre. Elton john entrance is from the side of the stage probably because he had just been performing his latest song. When Parkinson introduces Elton john he is full of compliments and the language he uses is full of flattery. He refers to Elton john as ‘a superstar of Rock and Roll’ and ‘lately ennobled’. This may be used to make Elton feel relaxed and confident. He uses these phrases so that the audience will have to guess who the guest is and this will help to create suspense amongst the audience because he does not mention his guests name until the end of his monologue. After Elton takes his seat his body language is quite defensive with his hands clenched together and he doesn’t look straight at his interviewer. Parkinson’s body language shows that he is confident and open and I also think it shows he is experienced. He sits with a straight back and his hands are open palms up on his lap. Parkinson’s opening question to Elton is ‘what’s up’ I think this simple question is used to direct the interviewee to the reason for his appearance on the show. It also shows that although Parkinson uses formal language his language can also include some Yorkshire dialect. Elton John answers politely and hints at why he is on the show. The body language of Parkinson is open and appealing, this is so that the guest will feel relaxed in his company and will answer his questions more openly. Elton’s body language shows that e is defensive and doesn’t want to reveal too much to his host. The style of questioning used by Parkinson is set so that it would help Elton to open up and become more confident in the answers he gives. Although the questions were probably agreed before the show they will still tell the audience what they want to know about the guest. Elton Johns appearance on the show in terms of his reasons for being on the programme fulfil the conventions of a chat show because he is on the show to promote something that he is doing at the moment in his career and one of the conventions of a chat show is that the guest in famous and appears on the show to promote there career. The set for the show is simple yet sophisticated. It has a pale blue background which is used to relax the interviewee and it gives the studio a modern look. Also there is a hint of pink which would make the studio warm and homely. The guest and host sit close together separated only by a small table. The guests who had appeared earlier on in the show sit further away from the host but they are still quite close. There are probably four cameras used to film this show. One camera will cover both host and guest, this would be used when the host is asking a question. Two cameras would cover the host and his guest individually, these cameras would be used to show the person who is speaking. The final camera is used to cover all four people that are on the stage. Most of the cameras are fixed and would just cut from shot to shot throughout the show. When the guest is speaking they would use a big close-up to show their facial expressions and emotions. The audience only participate in the show when a guest or the host enters onto the stage or when a guest finishes a performance. Ian Wright is a light weight chat show host when compared with Parkinson. His show ‘Friday nights all Wright’ is not as well known as ‘Parkinson’ and it is targeted towards the younger generation viewers. It is not a very conservative show which is a characteristic of the house style of I. T. V 1 which is not a conservative channel. His reputation as a chat show host is limited but his reputation as a footballer is legendary. Ian Wright’s dress code reflects the style of the show. He is wearing a black short sleeved t-shirt and imitation leather pants. The style of the show is also tacky compared to the sophisticated ‘Parkinson’. In the clip Ian Wright comes onto the show to loud music, this music is similar to the type of music played in night clubs and it gives the impression that this show is modern. Prince Naseem enters onto the stage accompanied by the same loud music played when he enters the boxing ring. He goes straight to Ian Wright and ‘high-fives’ him and then he goes into the audience and interacts with them. He walks through the audience and plays up to them and shakes hands with them. When he returns to the stage he once again high fives Wright. When he takes his seat naseem sits with his arms open wide, this show that he is confident and cocky. The opening question asked by Ian Wright is ‘so why did it take you so long to get in the ring? ‘ he uses this question as a joke to make naseem feel at home. He also adds ‘talk to me’ in a Jamaican accent to make the audience laugh. The language used throughout the show is slang and it is not very sophisticated and this echoes the style of the show. The set is cheap and simple with a fake brick wall background to give a feel of the inside of a house and there is a mural of the country side on another wall which I think is supposed to give a calming and relaxing effect. The host sits on a simple purple leather chair with a table with a C. C. T. V screen on top of it. Then there is another simple purple sofa for the guest to sit on. There are two steps down from the stage and in this area the audience sit in groups on simple chairs around small tables as if they were in a pub or night club. In the corner of the studio there is a cage containing football fans. I think that there are probably three cameras, the first is at the back of the studio and is used to show the guest, host and audience together and the second and third cameras are used so that both the host and guest have individual shots when they are speaking. The audience participate more in this show than in ‘Parkinson’ because they shake hands with the guest when he enters and also they laugh a lot more than in Parkinson and the laughing is not forced as it often is in Parkinson. The most effect of these two chat shows is probably ‘Parkinson’ because it will appeal to a wider audience than ‘Friday nights all Wright’ and also the guest will be more sophisticated and well known than those on Ian Wrights show. Out of the two chat shows I think I prefer ‘Parkinson’ because there is a wider range of guests and the guests are often in the news at the time so I like to hear there views on current affairs. An analysis of television chat shows. (2017, Jul 05).

Annotated bibliography Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Annotated bibliography - Research Paper Example The dimension which has been focused in this article is merely the framework on which this software works. The author of the article has used a literature review approach to help understanding the middleware approach to data integration. Also, readers will find this source credible because the author is from the field of network architecture. 3. Bramley, R., Chiu, K., Devadithya, T., Gupta, N., Hart, C., & Huffman, J. (2006). Instrument Monitoring, Data Sharing, and Archiving Using Common Instrument Middleware Architecture (CIMA). J. Chem. Inf. Model, 46(3), 1017–1025. The group of authors have conducted a vey systematic study which involves discussion based upon instrument monitoring which is undertaken with the help of middleware architecture. Also, the authors have noted that with the help of middleware architecture, software developers can easily conduct data sharing by software applications. Middlewae architecture is the simplest yet systematic model that can help software developers design software applicationsfor functions such as instrumet monitory, data sharing etc. The article is effective in terms of evaluating the usage of middleware in reinventing the software applications. The authors have claimed that with the aid of data integration architecture such as middleware, it is easier to transpose the updated versions of applications. The authors have allowed the readers to use the article as a reference to find out solutions for application in context. This article can be used as the most relevant source for the title selected for the research paper. The article is about the usage of middleware for the purpose of data processing. Information sharing and data integration for caches has been noted as one of the most complex aspect in software development. Thus, the authors of the articles help the readers to understand the claim that middleware can simultaneously be used for service co-ordination and data processing. Many system

Critically discuss crowdfunding as a source of funding for technology Essay

Critically discuss crowdfunding as a source of funding for technology ventures - Essay Example The European commission is presently dedicated towards releasing the potential of crowdfunding in the European Union, with the aim of enhancing the longer-term funding of enterprises and encouraging innovation (EOS Gallup Europe, 2005). Technology ventures have been on the rise lately, particularly due to high public technology interest; these ventures rely on scientific and technological advancement, selection as well as development of new products, assets or their attributes (Berger & Udell, 1998:1). Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) make up a vast proportion of all the new jobs creations, with start-up companies introducing new ideas or processes of production that revolutionize ways of doing things. In the European Union, SMEs are considered to be non-subsidiary, autonomous businesses that employ fewer than 250 employees while in the US, SMEs entails firms with less than 500 workers. SMEs have gained increased attention in the previous years, as a result of their massive growth that has been attributed to the increased access to financing (Berggren, Olofsson, Silver, 2000). According to Grant Thornton, a guest speaker from Les Ross, SMEs get most of their funding from banks; given that SMEs account for the greatest number of businesses and jobs in the European Union (Kira, 2013), the commission projects that crowdfunding has the capacity to promote economic growth and job creation. This paper critically discusses crowdfunding as a potentially alternative source of funding for technology ventures, with particular attention given to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The global crowdfunding industry has experienced massive growth over the years, especially with the rapid growth of internet resources (Deakins & Freel 2012, p.9). By 2013, this industry had been estimated to be worth over $5.1 billion. The concept

The use of flexible and distributed learning in higher education Literature review

The use of flexible and distributed learning in higher education (particularly post qualifying nurse education) - Literature review Example Data Sources 20 3.3. Search Terms 22 3.4. Supplementary Literature 22 3.6. Data Synthesis 24 Chapter 4 – Findings 25 4.1. Extent by which flexible and distributed learning is applied for continuing professional development (CPD) in nursing 26 4.2. How flexible and distributed learning is accepted among nurse practitioners as an effective form of learning activity. 30 4.3. Strengths and weaknesses of the new paradigm for the continuing professional development of nurses 34 Chapter 5 – Discussion 41 Chapter 6 – Implications and Recommendations 46 Conclusions 49 References 51 Appendices 60 Abstract Background. Hickie (2004) described the beginnings of the post-registration and education framework (PREP) which was instituted in 1994 to help address the changing needs in health care and protect public interest by regulate post-qualification practice. PREP was implemented by the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC), which is now known as the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Under the framework, nursing practitioners are required to embark on at least five days or 35 hours of learning activity relevant to current nursing practice during the three-year period preceding the renewal of their registration. Since 2000, renewal of nursing registration certificates for nurses who have not practiced their professions in any capacity for at least 750 hours during the last five years prior to application of renewal specify compulsory return to practice programmes. Additionally, the PREP continuing professional education (CPD) standard also requires nursing practitioners to maintain a personal professional profile (PPP) where all learning activity will be recorded, and compliance with audit requirements of the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Introduction of the portfolio compilation requirement during pre-registration prepares registered nurses for the current nursing practice of keeping a PPP (Hickie, 2004). Flexible and distributed learning offers promising opportunities for continuing professional development of nursing practitioners outside of the rigid context of traditional formats. Aim. The aim of this literature review is to evaluate the efficacy of flexible and distributed learning as an effective new paradigm in the delivery of continuing professional development in nurse education. Methodology. Descriptive analysis in the form of a literature review was adopted as the primary methodology. The review of literature proceeded similar to content analysis of unstructured data which results in summarisation of relevant findings as discussed in Wood and Ross-Kerr (2011). In this paper, findings were analysed and compiled under three main categories: (1) extent by which flexible and distributed learning is applied for continuing professional development in nursing; (2) how flexible and distributed learning is accepted nurse practitioners and the academe as an effective form of learning activi ty; and (3) strengths and weaknesses of the new paradigm for continuing professional development of nurses. Pertinent conclusions were drawn grounded on the findings from the literature review. Method. A search for pertinent resources was undertaken using the following databases (arranged in the order of the initial number of articles retrieved) : CogNet Library, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, Google Scholar, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL, Cochrane Collaboration, General Science Abstracts, Education Resource Information Centre (ERIC), PubMed, Health

The Implications of the Anthropogenic Global Warming Hypothesis Essay

The Implications of the Anthropogenic Global Warming Hypothesis - Essay Example Indeed, the stakes are high in the game of global warming. Trillions of dollars, our ability to compete, future energy policy, and our standard of living all hang in the balance. The national media, charged with informing the public on this important issue, has fallen into the trap of politicizing the issue, while truth has become little more that a reluctant victim of the infighting. In fact, on the issue of global warming the media has been accused of being a propaganda mouthpiece for whoever's political influence they happen to fall under. Media propaganda concerning the Anthropogenic Global Warming Hypothesis is the result of internal and external information manipulation, an inability to understand the science, and a propensity to serve the special interests that spin the narrative. Accusing the media of purveying propaganda, either knowingly or unwittingly, is a serious charge that needs to be defined and substantiated. The recitation of inaccurate information or the innocent broadcasting of a news item that is 'fed' by a special interest group may be negligent or incompetent, but does not rise to the standard of propaganda. In these cases, the propagandist is the government or organization that feeds a politically biased press release to an innocent reporter under the guise of credibility, and the news outlet is merely an unwitting dupe. Propaganda may also be in the form of information that has been skewed or spun by scientific experts who are pursuing a hidden social or political agenda. In these cases, the news organization does not have the expertise to analyze the highly technical data and they rely on the testimony of experts. Here, the experts who are using skewed science to advocate a controversial social issue are guilty of propaganda, but the media is merely their vehicle. The media rises to the level of a propaganda machine when they knowingly issue false or misleading information whose sole purpose is not to inform, but to sway public opinion to serve their own self-interest. There is little doubt that there are two deeply polarized stands on the significance of man's contribution to the global warming phenomena, and the media will promote the one that serves its best interests. The best interests of the media may be to satisfy a major advertiser, or may be to generate appeal among an audience that is sensitive to political correctness. Opponents of the hypothesis contend that science is merely placing the present in context with the recorded metrological history of about 200 years, and does not account for the natural shifts that take place over tens of thousands of years1. Indeed, advocates do rely on a limited window for their data as Houghton states, "For an understanding of the global warming issue, of most interest is the period of the last 50 years during which greenhouse gases increased substantially as did the global average temperature"2. Constrained by sound bytes and the perceived short attention span of their audience, the media does not have the resources to fully explain the implications of the widely conflicting data. The news outlet, or media source, needs to make a decision in regards to what they will tell their audience and how thoroughly they will explain it. This decision will almost assure them that they will

Art project and two Journals M3-M4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Art project and two Journals M3-M4 - Essay Example In order to draw, there must be a drawing material. There are two kinds of drawing material: the dry media and the liquid media. Dry media are those materials that appear in stick form. They are dragged over the paper and other surface and they leave trace of particles that create the drawing. There are many kinds of dry drawing materials such as graphite, metal point, charcoal, crayon, pastel and chalk. Liquid media are those materials that use brush and pen to apply ink over the surface. Painting is done with the use of brush and paints applied on various kinds of canvasses. There are many kinds of paintings such as encaustic, frescoes, tempera and others. Many artists have done several amazing paintings throughout history. Concept Fresco is an interesting type of painting. It uses pigments with water and applied on walls and ceilings. It is a high form of painting where they are applied in large scale murals even from the ancient times. It is not done easily as it requires physica l labor as well as good contemplation before the art is done. Most of the works done in churches are done in frescos. It is amazing to note that the canvass used by artist to do the art is so large, yet the outcome is exquisite and perfect. Many of the renaissance artists such as Michelangelo had done many frescos with religion and Christianity as theme. There are many other artists that have done frescoes and they are worth seeing and consider as priceless treasures. Artist Michelangelo’s frescoes done in the Sistine Chapel ceiling is truly amazing. His art covers the entire ceiling covering both end walls. The canvass that he has painted is so large. He truly is an art virtuoso as he was able to do the fresco while heads up looking at the ceiling. The total outcome is balanced, colorful, full-bodied, dynamic and perfect in all its sense. Chapter 8, 9 and 10 Summary: Prints, camera, computer and graphic arts are the modern type of arts. Prints are those images done on matrix to leave lasting impressions. These are the arts seen on sneakers, shirts, and others. There are many kinds of prints such as woodcut engraving, engraving, intaglio, linocut, relief, drypoint, etching, lithography, aquatint, mezzotint, photogravure, screen printing, inkjet, monotype, and many more. There are various medium and tools to use in making prints. Camera and computer are not just technological gadgets that are used for business but they are also important in art. These modern day machines make art easy and reproducible. Camera captures moments and these captured moments are printed to make impressions lasts forever. Computers are necessary to create advance and sophisticated graphics. Graphic designs are sophisticated form of art that produces dynamic output. It is a combination of words, pictures, and symbols to create image. Most businesses today use graphic design in their logos, websites, slogans, and company branding. Higher level designs are interactive, dynamic and three-dimensional. With the use of internet, these graphics get even more sophisticated. The art before are two dimensional, but with the presence of these modern technological tools such as cameras, computers, graphics, prints and internet, three dimensional and dynamic arts are being done easy and fast. Concept Some of the most fascinating kinds of prints are the wood engraving and linocut. Engraving is a high level work of art as it requires expertise. Wood engraving uses

Performance Appraisal Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Performance Appraisal Systems - Essay Example The evaluation is normally done by the individual's immediate superior in the organization who rates others is also rated by his superior. Performance appraisal employees rating techniques for comparing individual employees in his work group, in terms of personal qualities or deficiencies and the requirements of their respective jobs. It should be differentiated from job evaluation, which is concerned with the determination of worth of different jobs. Performance appraisal refers to the task of the rating or assessing the individual performance and abilities at work. (Yvonne, 1999, p.119) The performance appraisal is a formal programme in an organization, which is concerned not only with the contributions of the members who form part of the organization, but aims at spotting the potential also. The satisfactory performance is only a part of the system as a whole and the management needs more than merely evaluating the performance of the subordinates Performance evaluation is, something of an executive, art and science in itself. One important benefit of the system is that it helps top management to make further judgements about the executives who judge others. The top management can get a sense from the various performance appraisals, about the various departments of the organization and also the need of executive development in the years to come. Performance appraisal helps the supervisors to evaluate the performance and to know the potentials of their subordinates systematically and periodically. (Yvonne, 1999, p.124) Following are the benefits of merit rating: (a) It helps in the correct placement of workers. (b) Performance rating helps in guiding and correcting employees. (c) It helps the employees to know where they stand and consequently they try to improve their performance. (d) The performance appraisal helps to find out the ability of the personnel. This will stimulate them to better their performance in a bid to improve their rating over others. (e) Ratings can be used as the basis of sound personnel policy in relation to transfer and promotion. (f) Performance appraisal helps in designing the training programme in better way. (g) The performance appraisal if done scientifically and systematically will prevent grievances and develop a sense of confidence amongst workers because they are convinced of the impartial basis of evaluation. The making of appraisal ratings has a beneficial effect both on the persons doing the appraisal and the one being appraised. The appraisal brings to attention of supervisors or executives, the importance of knowing their subordinates as individuals. Purpose of Performance Appraisal Systems The object of performance appraisal falls in two categories: Administrative; and Self- improvement (a) Administrative Promotion. This is perhaps the most important administrative use of performance appraisal. It is of common interest to both, management and employees, to promote employees to

Frederick Douglass Essay Example for Free

Frederick Douglass Essay Life has many ups and downs. It is like a roller coaster ride in that it takes many turns. All the way through the life of a person, there will be good times and celebrations along with bad times and grief. The most significant thing to remember is to think positive and always stay strong mentally even at your lowest points. Frederick Douglass is a name of struggle. Being born into slavery, he faced many hardships throughout his life that people of today will never know, but overcome all of them because of his relentlessness to never give up, his passion to learn, be his own man, and more significantly staying strong mentally and keeping faith in God. Mental stiffness is when all things seem to be going wrong and there are no signs of hope, but you continue to strive for what you believe in, and Douglass did a good job of that. Douglass never gives up even when there appears to be no hope, and in the end is rewarded for all of his commitment. After the whole thing Douglass goes through, in the end he is not granted his freedom, but instead takes it on his own and his dream of being free is no longer a dream but in fact reality. Douglass resided in Baltimore intermittently from his arrival in the city in 1826 at the age of eight until he escaped from slavery twelve years later. Reflecting the uncertainties of black life in antebellum Baltimore, Douglass could state that â€Å"a city slave is almost a free man compared with a slave on the plantation† and lament that while in Baltimore â€Å"I often found myself regretting my own existence and wishing myself dead† (Narrative 50, 56). Douglasss conflicting impressions of his adolescence as a slave in Baltimore, impressions of comparative liberty and abject despair, reflected the larger paradox of African-American life in the city that claimed Americas largest black population at the time of the Civil War. Located on the border of slavery and freedom, Baltimore created space for African Americans to develop dynamic institutions that proved very important to their post-emancipation history. Yet these institutions developed under harsh restrictions on the freedom of non-slave African Americans that white Baltimoreans devised to replace the increasingly impractical bonds of slavery. Black agency amid the constraints and opportunities of an urban slave society gave Douglass with his first classroom in the limits of freedom for nineteenth-century African Americans. When Douglasss mother Harriet Bailey died he was hardly affected by the news for the reason that he rarely seen her. Douglasss father was a white man; slaveholders usually impregnated their females slaves to increase the number of slaves they owned. As a child Douglass didnt work in the fields because children werent strong enough. Therefore, he had free time to do other things besides tasks. Sometimes he would go along wit the Colonels grandson, Daniel, as a servant when he went hunting. Daniel in time became close to Douglass which was an advantage. But, Douglass still suffered because slave children were only given a long linen shirt, therefore in the winter he would be really cold. When Douglass was eight years old he was selected to go to Baltimore to live with Hugh Auld. Douglass was not sad to leave the plantation because he had no family or any sense of home that children usually had. He believes that if he had not been removed that he would still be a slave today. Douglass was amazed how kind his new was; unlike other white women she did not punish him for looking her in the eye. But, after some time, her kindness turned to cruelty, and she completely changed as a person. When Douglass first moved in with the Aulds, Mrs. Auld began teaching him the alphabet and some small words. When her husband found out he ordered her to sop because education ruins slaves, making them unmanageable and unhappy. Douglass overhears this and comes up with the strategy of what white men use to enslave blacks. From that he now understands what he has to do to win his freedom. Douglass lived in the Aulds household for seven years, he was able to learn how to read and write. Mrs. Auld became hardened and cruel and no longer tutored him. But, Douglass already learned the alphabet and was strong-minded to learn how to read. Auld rents Douglass for one year to Edward Covey, who was known for breaking slaves. For the first six months Covey worked and whipped everything out of Douglass to the point where he no longer cared about reading or freedom. This all changed when Douglass and Covey had a clash and after the fight Covey never touched Douglass yet again. Douglass was then rented to William Freeland, even though Freeland was milder and a fairer man, he was still going to escape. Frederick went on to become a famous orator, U. S. minister to Haiti, and a leader of his people. Douglass, like the other slaves is not born with this mental toughness, but acquires it mainly through his faith in God, hard work, and learning to read and write. Douglass faith in God is crucial because Douglass can turn to God at any point in his life. When Douglass is at his lowest, his faith in God is always there to lift him up. O God, save me! God, deliver me! Let me be free! (72). Their are times where Douglass questions God because of brutal conditions with Mr. Covey, but Douglass still stays strong mentally and spiritually, and that is key to taking his freedom. Douglass has a strong mind of his own, and does not let anyone or anything change what he believes is right. Conditions for slaves are pretty much severe everywhere they go. Slaves work long hard hours, for pretty much nothing, and to go along with that are poorly nourished. Douglass is lucky enough to be sent to Baltimore to live with the Aulds because conditions are a slightly easier there, but most importantly because that is where he learns to read and write. Luckily for Douglass, Mrs. Auld teaches him the alphabet and small words before her heart turns to stone. Very soon after I went to live with Mr. and Mrs. Auld, she very kindly commenced to teach me the A, B, C. After I had learned this, she assisted me in learning to spell words of three or four letters. (45). Although reading lessons with Mrs. Auld eventually stop, this does not stop Douglass in trying to acquire as much knowledge as possible. This makes Douglass even hungrier for knowledge because he knows that being literate is key to being free. The poor white children of the neighborhood eventually teach Douglass how to read in return for some food. As many of these as I could, I converted into teachers. With their kindly aid, obtained at different times and in different places, I finally succeeded in learning to read. (49). This is crucial for Douglass to gain his freedom, and help him believe in himself. Although brutal times are shortly ahead for Douglass at Mr. Coveys, the slave tamer, this knowledge and insight is definitely one of the major factors that helps him get through it. Before going to Mr. Coveys, Douglass been through a lot of mental and physical pain, but he does not know the worst is yet to come. Because of his disobedience and excessive curiosity in Baltimore, Douglass master sends him to Mr. Coveys, who is one of the cruelest slave tamers around. Douglass states that the first six months with Mr. Covey are unbearable. Douglass first task is to guide the oxen, and when he fails he barely leaves with his life. Covey whips him repeatedly, and continues to do so for weeks. Coveys extreme work and brutal punishments drain Douglass mentally and physically; he feels his hope for freedom is slipping away. This is where Douglass faith in God is crucial because he literally has no one else to turn to except God. It seems as if Douglass is about to let Mr. Covey win, and believe that all he is put on this earth to do is slave for others. But one day as Mr. Covey tries tying Douglass up for another brutal beating; Douglass defends himself and finds the courage within him to stand up to Mr. Covey by fighting back. Douglass injures Mr. Covey to the point where he is bleeding. Because of his courage to stand up for himself, Covey never lays a finger on Douglass again. This part of the autobiography is indeed a turning point because it restores Douglass confidence that he always had inside of him, and makes him believe that he will one day be a free man. This battle with Mr. Covey was the turning- point in my career as a slave. It rekindled the few expiring embers of freedom, and revived within me a sense of my own manhood. (78). This is indeed the turning point in his life because he stands up for what he believes in and actually wins. After this point Douglass is extremely confident in himself, and due to the knowledge he gains and his mental strength he is able to get through possibly his hardest obstacle in his life. I did not hesitate to let it be known of me, that the white man who expected to succeed in whipping, must also succeed in killing me. (78). This is such a powerful line in that it shows Douglass relentlessness to never give up, and it shows that he is once again strong, not necessarily physically, but more importantly mentally. This turning point helps Douglass stay on track, and eventually helps him escape to New York City. After New York Douglass goes to Massachusetts were he meets abolitionist Garrison, and is eventually employed as an abolitionist. All in all, Frederick Douglass achieves his goals due to hard work and his passion to learn. After all, the struggle throughout his life, Douglass dream finally comes true, and it could not have happened to a more deserving man. One more Douglass master was Mr. Gore who was a key example of the many white people who let their power go to their heads. Frederick Douglass lived a hard life as a slave as pretty much all slaves did. He is pushed to the limit mentally and physically, and although there are times Douglass almost breaks down, he never lets that happen to him. By learning how to read and write he realizes that knowledge is power, just like it is today. Ignorance is ugly, and he does not want that to happen to him. Douglass knowledge helps open doors for him that he would never have opened if he was not educated. Frederick Douglass is an amazing man, and shows that if you are strong mentally you can accomplish anything you put your mind too. Douglass accounts in his thrilling and morbid firsthand account of slavery in the south. Douglass lets the reader look at slavery in a style that reflects the desperation of slave life. Points covered range from the exploitation of slave women by their white masters to the violent treatment, and in some cases murder of slaves, to the back-breaking labor and lack of personal time. The biography includes chilling accounts of his mother. She walked twelve miles every night to see him, in infancy, and when she died, Douglass was not even allowed to witness her burial. This was common practice in those times, but to the modern reader, this is quite appalling. Douglass life was only made more complicated by the accusation that his master, Captain Anthony, was also his father. The treatment of these mixed children was often worse than that of regular slave children due to the fact that the mistress of the house felt animosity towards them. As a result, Frederick had to face the wrath of Captain Anthonys wife. What made Douglass experiences truly unique was the fact that he learned how to read and write. Most slaves were killed if they were caught doing so but in Douglass case, he was very lucky. When he was sent to Baltimore, Sophia Auld, his new mistress, taught him how to read a few simple words. From that point, he taught himself new words everyday through The Columbian Orator, a collection of speeches and essays dealing with liberty, democracy, and courage. Douglass saw this as his ticket to freedom. Douglass sheds some light on several areas such as the reason behind the slave songs and what it feels like to watch a family member be beaten and abused. His narrative does a very thorough job of conveying the slave experience to an audience that has no idea. The image conjured of slave owners and all of southern society in the 18th and 19th century is a negative one. This caricature holds shockingly true in Douglass narrative. However, there is a lot more complexity to Southern society show in Douglass well-crafted words. There are different kinds of slave owners in different parts of the south. People like Captain Anthony and Thomas Auld, who reside in the deep south, are cruel to the slaves they own, as they are property. Like the cotton gin, they are there to turn a profit. As long as they can work and do work, nothing else really matters. In Baltimore, a different type of slave owner is known. Sophia and Hugh Auld live next to neighbors that do not own slaves and are therefore, conscious of how they treat their slaves in public. Sophia had not even owned slaves before Douglass, so in the beginning, she was very kind and treated Douglass as you would treat any child. The abolitionist movement is a larger concern in Baltimore, because it is in the very streets. In the deeper south, though they are concerned about slaves escaping and abolitionists, the threat is not as axiomatic. Douglass also exposes the false piety of slave owners. Though many of them are bible thumping, none of them truly understands the lessons they are preached. Douglass analyzes the moral woes of slavery and the unnatural state that all involved are subjected to. Douglass words give the reader a depiction of southern life and morality in an intricate and intriguing way, which is fair and abrasively honest. In modern times, people think of slavery and think that it was north against south. In reality, many Northerners were indifferent to the plight of slaves. When Fredrick Douglass first escapes to the north, he finds that there are many people who support slavery and many that oppose it, but most of them are indifferent. This is because most northerners have no idea what is going on in the south. Therefore, they are ignorantly blissful with their lives. Douglass addressed this issue in letter to an abolitionist associate. Douglass moved to New Bedford in the year 1838 and found work as a caulker for whaling ships. In New Bedford, he decided to drop the name Bailey, in order to defend himself from slave catchers, and became famous as Frederick Douglass. Between the time of 1790 and 1860, the institution of slavery declined in Baltimore but the boundaries of African-American freedom narrowed significantly. When free black people posed little threat to white people, as in the 1790s, whites imposed relatively few limitations on them. But as the free black population grew so did racial competition for jobs and social power. White privilege responded to the dynamism of free blacks by circumscribing their liberty. Douglass lived in Baltimore when free African Americans made considerable economic gains and expanded an already powerful network of black institutions. By the time of the Civil War whites rolled back many of the gains of the 1830s and pushed free blacks to the edge of slavery. Douglass first witnessed white racism towards free black people during this tightening of Baltimores restrictions on non-slave African Americans that coincided with slaverys end. Work cited Browne, Gary Lawson. Baltimore in the Nation, 1789-1861. Chapel Hill: University of North Carolina Press, 1980. Douglass, Frederick. Letter to an abolitionist associate. In Organizing for Social Change: A Mandate for Activity in the 1990s. Edited by K. Bobo, J. Kendall, and S. Max. Washington, D. C. : Seven Locks Press. [1849] (1991) Douglass, Frederick. Life and Times of Frederick Douglass. 1892. New York: Collier, 1962. Douglass, Frederick. My Bondage and My Freedom. 1855. New York: Dover, 1969. Douglass, Frederick. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass. 1845. New York: Penguin, 1968. Fields, Barbara Jeanne. Slavery and Freedom on the Middle Ground: Maryland during the Nineteenth Century. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1985. Frey, Sylvia. Water from the Rock: Black Resistance in a Revolutionary Age. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1991. Gardner, Bettye. Ante-bellum Black Education in Baltimore. Maryland Historical Magazine 71 (Fall 1976): 360-366. Gardner, Bettye. Free Blacks in Baltimore, 1800-1860. Diss. George Washington University, 1974. Garonzik, Joseph. Urbanization and the Black Population of Baltimore, 1850-1870. Diss. State University of New York, Stony Brook, 1974. Graham, Leroy. Baltimore: The Nineteenth-Century Black Capital. New York: University Press of America, 1982. Maryland. House of Delegates. An Act Relating to Paupers, Beggars, Vagrants, Vagabonds and Disorderly Persons in the City of Baltimore. The Laws of Maryland ch. 116. March 10, 1854. Muller, Edward K. and Paul A. Groves. The Emergence of Industrial Districts in Mid-Nineteenth Century Baltimore. Geographical Review 69 (1979): 159-177. Steffen, Charles G. The Mechanics of Baltimore: Workers and Politics in the Age of Revolution, 1763-1812. Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1984. Wesley, Charles H. Richard Allen: Apostle of Freedom. 1935. Washington: Associated Publishers, 1969.

Trends And Development Of Malaysian Media Essay

Trends And Development Of Malaysian Media Essay What is animation. Wyatt defines animation is the image that is manipulated in frame by frame, and when moved quickly will produce the illusion of movement. Nowadays, animations have many type forms such as animated films, television series, live-action films, advertisements, corporate videos, video games and others. These had shown that the animation is not only stop in traditional areas of television animation and advertising but a step forward into areas such as web design, educational courseware, interactive comics, architecture, 3-D holograms, virtual reality and mobile games. (Hassan, 2008). The animation growth in Malaysia is still unstable. The government plays an important role in the development of the animation industry. Malaysian animation industry had influenced by the United States and Japan animation because of the early development of animation. Its present growth is hindered due to many factors such as the lack of skills, local identities in animation and due to small domestic market. The objective of this study is to investigate the influences of the United States and Japan animation industry on the development of Malaysian animation industry. We will also discuss the challenges and opportunities in the Malaysian animation industry. 2. History of Animation The development of animation start from very early age and originated from the cavemens cave painting (Stephenson, 1967). The cave painting shows a sequence of separate seems like a film strip. The cave drawings are originated during the Palaeolithic age (Stephenson, 1967:24). After that, physician John Ayrton invented the thaumatrope in Paris, 1825 (Jamalludin Zaidatun, 2005:6). Thaumatrope was invented as an entertainment device which can make two still images become a persistence of vision by twirling the strings. Another device using the idea of persistence of vision invented by Joseph Plateau and Simon Stampfer in 1830 called the phenakistoscope, in the meaning of deceptive view in Greek. The phenakistoscope is a toy which using a disc that contains a series of continuous images with in-between of each image with a metal rod placed in the middle (Jamalludin Zaidatun, 2005:7-8). In 1834, William Horner in England had invented zoetrope which same principles as the phenakistoscop e. Before name of zoetrope, it called the Daedalum (wheel of the devil). Zoetrope differences with the phenakistoscope is the series of images is placed with a metal drum. The metal drum rotate faster, the animation becomes clearer and smooth (Jamalludin Zaidatun, 2005:9). The praxinoscope was introduced by Charles Emile Reynaud after 43 years zoetrope invented. He combined the principles of the zoetrope and phenakistoscope (Jamalludin Zaidatun, 2005:9-10). The praxinoscope was the last of development of early animation techniques (Stephenson, 1967; Wells, 1998). Then, John Barnes Linnett, an inventor of flip book in 1968 who basically did not use or create any specific devices unlike others. The method of flip book is still being use at nowadays in the modern animation. Modern animation with the development of computer hardware and software, allowed animators spend less time on hand-drawing and increase the quality of the animation. D:Visual CultureToyStory[3].jpgD:Visual Culturereboot_characters.jpg Fig. 1 Reboot (1994) Fig. 2 Toy Story (1998) Before the emergence of advancing computer technology, animation is being hand-drawn so called the technology of cel animation, but now it fully digitalize and produced into 3D animation. It helps reduce physical effort and increase the quality and speed of producing animation effectively. The details and visual effects become more fine and complex compare with the cel animation. 3D visual technology which was previously limited to 2-dimensional views of the x and y axis have seen, an additional of the z axis is representing the third and newest dimension. 3D digital content is including the use of computer graphic image (CGI) and it finally came out the very first CGI technology animation series Reboot (1994) and the first 3D animation, Toy Story (1998). 2. The United States and Japan Animation Development of animation has inspring the two countries, the United States and Japan (Mohd Amir Mat Omar Md Sidin Ahmad Ishak, 2011). These countries animations grow mature and leading the way and inspiring the development of animation in other countries, including Malaysia, such as Walt Disney Animation Studio, Pixar, Studio Ghibli and Toei Animation. With the advancement and capabilities of computer technology, allowed other countries have the opportunities to grow slowly and become minor competitors. They cannot overturn the animation industries of United States and Japan although they have the capabilities, but the animations from countries have their own respective animation history according to their places origin. 2.1 A Comparison between American and Japanese Animation The difference between American and Japanese animation can be described in simple way is the narrative and the visual. The narrative of American animation is more direct than the Japanese one which tells the story in a veiled way. Additionally, the narrative of American animation follows the formula of a happy ending to guarantee acceptance by the audience, however, Japanese animation tries out different story lines and narratives for different groups of audiences. Secondly, on the one hand, American animation draws in clear lines, uses bright, vivid colours, full of fantasy, colourful and with funny characters and background designs. Sometimes the audience feels the lively rhythm when watching. On the other hand, Japanese animation is made in watercolour-like, freehand-like fashion with the pale colours that convey a sense of the hand-drawn traces. Studying American and Japanese animations history and industry structure, and analysing their successful productions may help further develop other animation industries such as the Malaysian one. On the one hand, American animation has the safety of the narrative and the genre is suitable for children and families. This kind of narrative and genre is also safe for an animation industry which still finds itself in the beginning stage such as in Malaysia as it reduces the risks when making an animation production. In addition, since Malaysians have an English language advantage, it is much easier to get animation knowledge from American companies such as Disney and Pixar. Seefood The Movie  that stars a couple of sharks is that its Malaysias first 3D animation movie in English and its style also similar like the production of Pixar, Finding Nemo (2003). On the other hand, the uniqueness of Japanese animation provides many options to other animation industries in the world. Japanese animation has a wide range of genres which includes even the erotic and its target audience is not only children. That is part of the reason why nowadays Japanese animation has developed on the scale we know. This wide range of genres of Japanese animation has inspired Malaysian animation to find its own identity through the story content, narrative, editing and/or conceptual, but not necessarily visual, style. 2. History of Malaysian Animation For Malaysia animation history, wayang kulit and traditional literary has a great influence to the Malaysian animation. The Malay word wayang means shadow. Shadow play is said to have its origins in Inida, China, Egypt, Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia), Turkey and Europe. Wayang kulit are said to one of the earliest animation in Malaysia because it is a traditional Malaysian theater staged operas, combined oral narrative and performing arts into a piece. Hassan Muthalib (2003) points to wayang kulit as the first known example of animation. While in performances, puppet operators are sitting behind the white screen, the screen is marked light; performers are performing through the puppets and mouth telling various stories from the folk literatures. Puppet shadow show on the screen, combined with the perfomers voice, much like the art of Chinese shadow play. In fact, appearance on the screen of wayang kulit that used by the animator is in the early 1926. German animato r Lotte Reiniger used the form of wayang kulit, created her first feature film called The Adventures of Prince Achmed. Many Malaysian animators have credited The Adventures of Prince Achmeds recognizable style for generating their initial interest in animation. Malaysian animation also influenced by traditional literary. It divided intro aristocracy sponsor and appreciation in writing literature, as well as ordinary people who eulogized oral folk tales. Development of both is at the same time. The written literatures are strongly containing feudalism, mainly palace life; oral folk tales, including the story that origin of animals, customs, heroes, and in some areas. Subsequently, these elements are using in Malaysia movies, shows, modern literature, such as animation, comic and more. The visual arts are widely used. Writing literature and folk literature have played a big role in Malaysia animation. For example, the animated film Hikayat Sang Kancil, a short film produced by Anandam Xavier in 1978 which adapted from the story of mouse deer. Mouse deer in Malaysia and Indonesia is very famous, it is the size of the feline, legs and tail like a deer, the body and head like mice and often teases other small animals. With the appearance of anim ated film Hikayat Sang Kancil, a few titles Sang Kancil Monyet, Sang Kancil Buaya, Gagak Yang Bijak, Arnab Yang Sombong and Singa Yang Haloba which ranged from 1984 to 1987 came out (Mohd Amir Mat Omar Md Sidin Ahmad Ishak, 2011). Development of Malaysian Animation Malaysia animation productions are still in the process of developing. Most of animations which have been aired in Malaysia are either from the United States or Japan because of the influences of early development of animation. However, the development of technology in computer hardware and software has allowed and offered the local developers a space to be creative and a helpful tool in developing the industry towards maturity and international standard. Thus, animation in Malaysia began in 1946 through the establishment of the Malayan Film Unit but now known as Filem Negara (Hassan, 2003). Animation was only limited to moving text and objects. Malaysia animation began to develop commercially around the 1990s with the appearance of Usop Sontorian animated series in 1995 and Silat Lagenda animated film in 1998. Since the publication of the animated series Usop Sontorian in 1995, the animation sector growing with the appearance of many television series, films and telemovie related to animation. This is an exciting development among ASEAN countries, as Malaysia did not have a big and strong studio compared to Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia (Hassan, 2008). Malaysia has produced close to sixty animated television series and films. However, the growth and development of animation have slowed down from 1987 to 1994 and from 1996 to 2007 (Mohd Amir Mat Omar Md Sidin Ahmad Ishak, 2011). The first gap of the development of Malaysia animation begin from 1987 after the end of Anandem Xaviers, producer of Hikayat Sang Kancil, work to 1995 when Kamn Ismail of Kharisma Production produced the first animated series, Usop Sontorian(1995).The acceleration of animation is due to Malaysia government pushes for the use of digital technology in animation production (Hassan, 2003). In the meanwhile, animation also have appeared in other forms as text and advertisements but were simple at the time and only used minor for increase the attraction of films or advertisement. The second gap is the lack of printed media on Malaysian animation. After Usop Sontorian broadcast out, a number of animation series have appeared, such as Keluang Man, Yokies, Anak-anak Sidet and more. Unfortunately, Malaysia encounter economic crisis that appeared in 1998 and why animation production has slowed down. 3.1 The Recent Animated Features In Malaysia, there is a lot of talent in the field of animation and it is comparable to overseas. Thus, the animated film War of The Worlds: Goliath, it certainly opened the eyes of the world to Malaysia where able to produce an animated film quality and international standards. The development of local animation show remarkable improvement every day. Animated series such as Upin Ipin, BoboiBoy and Seefood between local products should be proud of as full use of the expertise of Malaysian. However, Malaysian also identified no less pleased with the production of the animated film War of The Worlds: Goliath (WOTWG) that will find in theaters on November 2012. Production Tripod Group of Companies (Tripod) published WOTWG under layer in Kuala Lumpur and Los Angeles, United State of America, an animated first local generated in 3 dimensions (3D) with combined stereoscopic 2D cell hybrid technology and computer generated imagery (CGI). This is the first project resulting Tripod with Kevi n Eastman cooperation with the originator of the famous animated series, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles as publishing executive Chief Executive Employees and co-founder of Tripod, Leon Tan serves as a major publisher. The film gets a touch of the director, Joe Pearson who is not arbitrary because the individual has 30 years of experience in the field of animation Hollywood. The author was David Abramowitz previously been involved in the famous television series Highlander. Although the main stem is external energy certainly has expertise in animation production, more than 200 of the 300 workforce-oriented science-fiction films produced is Malaysian. Interestingly about this movie, it has already won the Best Film Award at 3D Animation 3D Film Festival Los Angeles in September. WOTWG victory sweeter when beating other Hollywood movies that is equally as ParaNorman, Madagascar 3 and Tinker Bell. WOTWG comic adapted from HG Wells writing this 100-year-old also screened at the San Diego Comic Convention, July. The film received funding and support from Malaysia Venture Capital Management (Mavcap), Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC), the creative industry loan fund bank and CG visual effects of the National Film Development Corporation (Finas). Overall, WOTWG has put a new benchmark that local creative energy is already ready to explode 3D content creation globally. 4 Challenges The lack of training and skills Lack of conventional training such as drawing, painting, layouts and story-boarding for animation production might have been the main reason for many small and poorly produced local animations especially during the starting years of this industry. Malaysian film industry is due to small domestic market One of the major challenges facing Malaysian film industry is due to small domestic market. While in the programs rating for television broadcast, film that achieve 2 million viewers are already considered a successful film. It is evident that most successful animation industries that achieve export potential are those with huge home-based markets like Japan, not to mention Disney and Pixar. The animation industry in Malaysia is a small industry in terms of the quantity of films produced annually as well as its contribution to the economy. The main challenge faced by the local industry as a result of globalization is mainly from the influx of foreign film products. As a commitment to embracing the open market and globalization, Malaysia does not protect the importation of foreign products. Foreign films are free to enter the local market under minimal requirements. First, it has to pass through the Malaysian Film Censorship Board, which is the government authority that is responsible for granting licenses to the film for public viewing, and second is to provide subtitles in the Malay language (Rosnan, 2012). Other than the rules and regulations stipulated under the Film Censorship Act, films from any country are free to enter the Malaysian market. To a certain extent, the local film industry is affected by foreign products that undermine the local films in the local market. In Malaysias case, the indigenous film industry is striving to compete with foreign films in the local market. In this circumstance, it is obvious that it will be tougher for the industry to compete in the international arena. Furthermore, it is especially difficult for local films to compete with big-budgeted foreign films. Lack of local identity Malaysia animation industry also greatly influence by American and Japan animation, a initial evidence was the farming out of ink and paintwork in 1985 to Lensafilm, a commercial film studio (Hassan,2003). This scenario eventually brings Malaysia personnel to undergo training in Toei Animation, Japan and influenced physical aspect in certain ways of Malaysia Industry. Animation styles and techniques have been confined to the classical tradition but the emphasis by universities and colleges on research and development has led to the exploration of alternative methods. The early days of animation tended to copy, in particular, the Disney or MGM (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer cartoon studio) styles of animation. One studio, Lensamation, did out-sourcing work for Toei and other Japanese studios, resulting in a whole generation of animators who indulged in the anime tradition. Many studios are still using the contemporary American style of animation as they find that it looks good and is easier to market. But character design and animation in the style of Johnny Bravo, Power Puff Girls and Sponge-Bob Squarepants appears to be standard for the digital generation and local producers are taking the cue. The PIXAR-style highly-stylised animation and design is also the trend for computer games and web-based content both for local industry and out-sourcing as clients and audiences seem to relate to the form. Hassan (2004) described the relationship between student animation projects and identity of Malaysia various heritages and races. In his citation, currently Malaysia neither distinctive animation trend nor local identity (Hassan 2008). At the same time, Hassan also did not specifically mention cultural identification identify within Malaysia Animation. Hence, it would be a long ways effort to understand how culture is portrayed in Malaysia animation. It has been argued that competition in animation business is very stiff with developed and Western countries dominating global animation business. Opportunities Animation from the United States and Japan are taking over the television channels in Malaysia. In fact, these animations are come as cultural products which are different values for Malaysians. With the Malaysia culture influence of Upin and Ipin, a proud and strong impression of the advancement of Malaysian animation may leave on Malaysians and change their though for the Malaysian animation. Mickey Mouse and Dragonball which Malaysians watching since young may find the emergence of Upin Ipin, as local animation able to portray local environment, it provides proposal for character characteristic that define our motherland country. The effort started with Usop Sontorian , the first local tailor made movie for Malaysia market. The production of Kharisma Production under cartoonist Ujang and director Kamn Ismail have leading Malaysia market by Upin Ipin and Boboi Boy. Story As we said just now, the wide range of genres of Japanese animation has inspired Malaysian animation to find its own identity through the story content, narrative, editing and/or conceptual, but not necessarily visual, style. Seefood The Movie  is jointly produced by Silver Ant Sdn Bhd and the Al-Jazeera Childrens Channel (JCC), with a grant from the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry and also support from the Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC). Seefood The Movie  is the Malaysias first 3D animation movie in English. Seefood has been compared with Finding Nemo (Fig. ) by Pixar because both of them have a similar story line, background setting, and graphic design. Although Seafoods visual and style is not better than Finding Nemo, but the difference lies in the core concept. Finding Nemo focuses on the family, whereas Seefood focuses on the environment and humanity. Although Seefood has a happy ending, the difference in core concept shows the influence of Japanese animation on Malaysian animation while the story was being written. As mentioned, one of the major differences between American and Japanese animation is the story concept. American animation is always focusing on the family a nd the main target audience is children, however, the target audience of Japanese animation is both children and adults and their story concept could be any topic or social issue. However, good looking does not mean good overall. There is still room for improvement, especially as far as editing, music and storytelling are concerned. Government Support International producers are taking advantage of the emergence of the new international division of cultural labour by searching for cheaper production costs in foreign countries. As in the case of FDI(Foreign Direct Investment) in Malaysia, which has contributed to economic growth and provided externalities, the government foresees that similar benefits would accrue to the film industry by attracting foreign film producers. However, neighboring countries, including Thailand and Singapore, also have the same strategy. Malaysia should have a competitive advantage in competing with other countries for foreign film projects. This is not easy, as the government has to formulate policies and provide an incentive structure that is attractive to foreign producers. In Malaysia, it is estimated that 200 companies are under a program called Creative Content Centre set up by the government including those involved in the field of animation (Mohd Amir Mat Omar Md Sidin Ahmad Ishak, 2011). Another support program called the MSC (Multimedia Super Corridor) Malaysian Animation. All of these companies are in need of help and support, especially from the government because animation in Malaysia still not strong as in the United States and Japan, they may not stand on their owns without direct aid from the government. So, the establishment of Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) and Multimedia Development Corporation (MDec), which aims to advance the field of information technology and multimedia including creative multimedia is very significant. A total of RM750 million fund has been allocated for this purpose and is made available to developers of video games, visual effects and animation (Mohd Amir Mat Omar Md Sidin Ahmad Ishak, 2011). D:Visual CultureWD_geng_Meluncur.jpg Fig. 4 Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula (2009) Success of Upin Ipin animation is the best example can be seen revenue initiatives and support provided by the MSC and MDeC. This animation has become a huge phenomenon not only in Malaysia, but outside countries such as Indonesia, Turkey, Brunei, and Thailand. Similarly, the diversity in Malaysia film industry. Animation films are seen as global products and easily directed towards enticing global audiences. After so long upon the presence of a film that is capable to displaying the trule Malaysia, it finally came out. Watching Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula(2009), Les Copaque Production took Malaysians to a great exploration of nature and amazing. By simply based on the popularity of the television series Upin Ipin that aired on television, this animated film turned out to be able to bring people from all ages and races together to watch it in a theater. Movie Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula(2009) has grossed RM6.3 million revenue run in cinema (Maimunah, 2009) and this has brought a new phenomenon in local animation industry. In addition, collaboration between Multimedia Development Corporation (MDeC) with Al Jazeera Childrens Channel (JCC) in publication of 26 series episode at Saladin television (Al Bawaba, 2007). With the achievement made by a local production house, Les Copaque Production Sdn Bhd, the government is optimistic that locally, Malaysians have the capability to benefit from the animation sector. Nevertheless, to compete in the animation sector would mean that the industry is competing with big-budgeted giant global players like Pixar and Disney. This is a challenge for a relatively small industry. Thus, government support is deemed necessary, as the local producers are definitely not in the same league as other global film players. Conclusions In the case of the Malaysian animation industry, it is acknowledged that the local market is small and that the market size of a nation dictates the budget for animation production. Hence, to compete with big-budgeted foreign animations is not a feasible option. Rather, the industry should venture and compete in an area where it has a competitive advantage. One area that local people have shown their capability is the animation sector. Les Copaque Production was the first private production house that produced 3-D animation and was very successful in the local market. Their products have subsequently been marketed internationally. In 2009, their animation series is now available on ASTROs Disney Channel. This proves that local people are actually capable of developing their own film products. In another area of animation, Malaysia has skilled people that are capable of taking up outsourcing jobs. With the relatively cheap cost of labour, Malaysia should attract global animation clust ers such as Disney or Pixar to outsource their production of animation work. Local public and private universities are offering more animation and multimedia related courses for students. Every year, quite a number of students graduate from animation related courses. Taking advantage of the emergence of the new international division of cultural labour will provide employment opportunities, especially for new graduates. The government plays an important role in nurturing and promoting the development of the indigenous film industry through its policy and regulatory framework. The government, through FINAS, has taken the necessary action to promote the development of the indigenous film industry. Nevertheless, much needs to be done to ensure that the governments funds are properly channeled and used in the most efficient way. In most animation, culture is reflected through different areas. Some are reflected by the physical appearance of character and even the language they speak. As yet, distinctive animation trend is seen in Malaysia that can be considered unique or having a local identity. However, it is a global trend in which if better understood, the more benefits we can get from animation. Animation can become a powerful business tool with its impact but importantly as well is the fact than the culture and identity of a nation can be shared through the animation.