Monday, September 30, 2019

The Dictator Next Door

Eric Paul Roorda’s The Dictator Next Door is an insightful and incisive work of diplomatic history, studying the United States’ dealings from 1930 to 1945 with Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo, for years a foreign policy problem unto himself. It also demonstrates how the Good Neighbor Policy, which claimed to promote solidarity and peace among western hemisphere nations, came to allow dictators in Latin America â€Å"to run their countries however they pleased, so long as they maintained common enemies with the United States: first the fascists, then the communists† (1).The book is essentially a study of how the democratic United States tolerated and even supported military dictatorships in other nations, despite some diplomats’ desire to shun dictators and promote democracy abroad. Roorda’s main argument centers on how the despotic Trujillo presented the Hoover and Roosevelt administrations with problems, because he was no pliable puppet.Difficul t to control and a frequent embarrassment to the United States, Trujillo had few friends in the State Department, but the United States military and presidents backed him because he was neither fascist nor communist, and because the Good Neighbor policy called for supporting standing rulers, regardless of their methods. Roorda traces the history of Dominican-American relations and demonstrates how American influence on the region built for years before Trujillo’s rise.A former Spanish colony, the Dominican Republic was ruled by Haiti until its independence in 1844, after which the military assumed long-lasting control and foreign powers jockeyed for influence there. The United States’ influence increased steadily between 1860 and 1904, and culminated in the United States Marine Corps’ takeover in 1915. During this period, the American military trained Dominican men to serve in its constabulary and army, thus establishing a sort of school for dictators in which R afael Trujillo was its best student.Trujillo received training from the Marine Corps and earned an Army commission during this time, despite a history of criminal activity, including rape and extortion (for which he escaped punishment), and rose to the rank of general. Not the United States’ first choice as the Dominican Republic’s leader, he rallied the army to stage a coup in 1930, three years before the Good Neighbor policy was introduced, and was helped by the Hoover administration’s nonintervention policy, which preferred commerce over militarism as a means of promoting good will.Roorda explains the process in great detail in chapter two and does not spare the American government from sharp criticism. He maintains that Hoover’s desire to redeem the United States’ image in Latin America, as well as the administration’s unwillingness to back his ambassador (who distrusted Trujillo and refused to recognize him), helped Trujillo maintain hi s control.Wary of Theodore Roosevelt’s and Woodrow Wilson’s use of â€Å"gunboat diplomacy,† the Hoover administration recognized Trujillo because he seemed likely to protect American commercial interests and it was more politically expedient to recognize de facto regimes, dictatorships or otherwise. He even states plainly that the savvy Trujillo was able to play the American legation against the American military, which trained and obviously respected Trujillo. Clearly critical of American behavior in Latin America, Roorda states that â€Å"in the history of U. S.relations with its closest neighbors . . . the rhetoric of solidarity and protection against European aggression ran counter to the brutal logic and increasing momentum of U. S. territorial expansion and imperial ambitions† (23). He deems the policy paradoxical from the outset; while it promoted friendship with Latin America (which filtered into popular culture during the 1930s and ‘40s), Latin American intellectuals were less than enthusiastic because it relied on American authority and kept authoritarian regimes in power, Trujillo’s being the most egregious.During the Depression, Trujillo consolidated his power even further despite the Dominican economy’s near-collapse, receiving additional American economic aid, mainly because of his promises to protect American business interests. However, he soon became â€Å"the greatest source of instability in U. S. -Dominican relations. . . . As U. S. officials found out, the benefits of a ‘stabilizing’ dictatorship could be canceled out by an unreliable dictator† (87).Roorda maintains that the Good Neighbor policy itself was an empty, nebulous policy created by Franklin Roosevelt, whom he characterizes as â€Å"a master of innuendo, ambiguity, paradox, and the manipulation of disparate personalities† (91). In chapter four, Roorda characterizes Trujillo as a shrewd, image-conscious ma nipulator of public opinion on a par with FDR, but with total control of an intimidating military that crushed any opposition.Trujillo flouted his authority, renaming geographical features, parks, and even the capital city for himself, surrounding his rule with public spectacle, and assuming total control of the Dominican press in order to glorify his regime and even deify himself. One telling newspaper quote deemed him â€Å"so necessary that [the people] give him permanent power† and somehow dubbed his regime â€Å"super-democracy† (95).The American government, meanwhile, was aware of Trujillo’s transgressions yet played into his hands, even assisting his censorship campaign and public-relations efforts. While the United States was not fooled, Roorda implies, it played along in an effort to heed the Good Neighbor policy’s claim to support national sovereignty and thus allowed Trujillo a free hand. The entire book centers on a single recurring theme: the folly of a democracy supporting dictators.Roorda maintains that â€Å"the reliance on dictators to attain the traditional U. S. goals of stability and cooperation in Latin America meant having to ignore those instances when the strongmen themselves incited unrest and conflict† (147). The American military is partly to blame, since it trained Trujillo and treated him as a favored protà ©gà ©, while diplomats saw through the dictator’s pageantry and disapproved of his methods (Trujillo returned their disdain).Roorda casts a good deal of the blame at the Roosevelt administration, which, in its efforts to avoid heavy-handed intervention, allowed Trujillo to remain in power because he seemed to represent stability even while disrupting Dominican-American relations (with his conduct at home and his occasional bloody attacks against neighboring Haiti). In describing American logic vis-à  -vis Trujillo, â€Å"Dominican stability made him practical to deal with,† eve n if that meant turning a blind eye to the questionable ethics of backing brutal regimes that did not threaten American dominance or prosperity.At times, he argues, this meant that Trujillo was the proverbial tail wagging the American dog, getting his way because Roosevelt lacked the will or the political clout to intervene against him. The book uses ample detail and careful research in describing the United States’ paradoxical relationship with Trujillo, relying heavily on government documents, personal papers, the contemporary press, and a large number of secondary sources.While its assertions are not groundbreaking (recent diplomatic history is harshly critical of American support for brutal dictators), it is well-written, with concise prose and well-constructed arguments, on the whole an excellent diplomatic history. For scholars seeking an explanation of American relations with Latin America, and who do not mind its sharp criticisms of American foreign policy’s et hical lapses and oversights, The Dictator Next Door is well worth one’s while.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Effects of Mass Media Essay

What were the major developments in the evolution of mass media during the 20th century? The major developments in the mass media during the 20th century include electronic and digital communication. The first electronic device use for communication was the telegraph, which feature dot-dash signals. Thanks to the telegraph, people did not need to use transportation to deliver a simple message. With the telegraph a message was received in a matter of minutes. The telegraph was the foundation to many other electronic devices like the radio, fax machine, and the cell phone. With the digital era, communication has transformed our way of life. Cable TV and the internet have evolved so quickly that some traditional media have (like the newspaper) have lost their control over information. Other traditional media are also losing ground thanks to the development of emerging media. Media sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Tweeter are attracting more audience than traditional media. Facebook alone has over 1 billion users worldwide and its still growing. With new technology been develop every day, people are more connected than ever before, because of this, business like the post office are losing money every day because people no longer need to write letters, or mail a check to pay for their bills. News can be broadcast almost instantaneously by anyone with a mobile device. Devises like ipads, smart phones, and laptops allowed people to view anything from magazines, news articles, television shows and movies. Read more:Â  Essay on Mass Media Advantages and Disadvantages Most TVs are now been develop with internet and wi-fi connection, so people have a reason to purchase it. The development of mass media will continue to grow and new ways of information will eventually replace the old ones. How did each development influence American culture? The development of mass media has influence American culture in many ways. Before the development of new age technology, American culture way of communication was oral and written. People rely on books, manuscripts, and word of mouth to get information delivered. Even politicians depended on oral and written communication to get the vote of the people. With the development of the telegraph and eventually the radio, in America, people started moving from a farming culture, into a urban life style, where new industries and economic opportunities beckoned. With the development of digital communication, people started taking control over information. Publishers and TV station began losing ground over the control of information as well. With each development, people began to depend on themselves to get the information, rather than relying on teachers, or storytellers. The internet has allowed our culture to do interact in different ways. You can buy anything online, without leaving the house, you can work from home, take college courses and earn your degree, make a video conference, and many other things that could not be done in the past. There are many advantages to the development of mass media in our culture, but it has also disadvantages. I believe that the internet has made people lazier and less responsible. There are people that instead of going to the market to get food, they prefer to order groceries online to get it delivered home. When it comes to education, some students just search for the easy answers available online, instead of taking the time to do the research.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

The Complete 2018 AP Exam Calendar

If you’re like many high school students, with the second semester now underway your thoughts may be turning to the end of the year. Specifically, you might be starting to think about AP exams, and you’re right to do so. Whether you’re enrolled in AP classes or planning to self study for AP exams , now is a great time to turn your eye towards the AP calendar. Each year, AP exams are administered over a two week period in May. In 2018, the tests will begin on May 7 and, with the exception of specially administered late exams, they will wrap up on May 18. Because different tests are administered on different dates and at different times, you’ll need to plan well in advance to accommodate the tests you want to take. In this post, we’ll present the complete 2018 AP Exam Calendar along with our favorite advice for AP exam prep. With the holidays behind us and the new year underway, ’tis the season to think about spring testing. Are you ready? *This data is taken from the CollegeBoard AP Calendar Also keep in mind that if you are an AP Studio Art student, your portfolio is due online by Friday, May 11. Your teachers or coordinators must upload your digital portfolio by 8 PM EDT and hold the portfolio assembly for 2-D Design and Drawing by this date. Also keep in mind that AP Seminar End-of-Course Exams are available only to students enrolled in the AP Capstone Program. You may not self- study for this test. For more information about the AP Capstone Program, see our post An Introduction to the AP Capstone Diploma . Finally, if you identify a scheduling conflict in your exam schedule, talk to a teacher or counsellor as soon as possible. The College Board will coordinate late testing dates if your situation necessitates one, but you will need to apply to do so. You can find more information about late testing on the Late Testing Dates page . Our Early Advising Program helps students in 9th and 10th grade discover their passions and build strong academic and extracurricular profiles to succeed in high school. If just looking at the test schedule makes you dizzy, don’t worry. AP exams are intimidating to many students at first. Luckily, if you approach each exam individually and use our time-proven study guides and test strategies, you’ll be ready on AP exam day.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Ethical Decision Making and Leadership as Portrayed in the End of the Essay

Ethical Decision Making and Leadership as Portrayed in the End of the Line Film - Essay Example This study looks into the film â€Å"End of the Line, a documentary film directed by Rupert Murray that focuses on the implications of overfishing across the world. The film is portraying how fishing in modern times is leading to ocean ecosystems destruction. The film shows that the current consumption of fish in the world is very high thereby resulting to overfishing. It shows the fishing communities in the Mediterranean who are long- established being endangered. There is also evidence that the young fishermen in Senegal can no longer compete with the international fleets whose technology is more advanced, hence depriving them the ability to feed their families. Additionally, it reveals that Newfoundland is almost running out of cod despite its fish- rich waters attracting legions of migrants in the past. Apart from these parts of the globe, the film also reveals how overfishing has caused local disparities and corporate iniquities in China, Japan, Malta, and Gibraltar. The film n ot only examines the likely adverse consequences of overfishing to the climate, marine life, and human livelihoods, but also provides potential remedies to these consequences such as reducing the number of fishing fleets. According to Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO], the fishing industry is a significant contributor to the world economy, particularly with regard to human food consumption and provision of input factors in some industrial processes. Besides, the industry is a source of livelihood to over 600 million people across the world. Sutherland and Canwell (2011, p. 28) note, fishing industry has three major sectors. The first one is the commercial sector that involves individuals and enterprises that are associated with aquaculture resources and transformations of these resources into sale products. The second sector is recreational sector that is made up of individuals and enterprises that use fishing for purposes of sport or recreation. The third sector is the tradit ional sector that comprises individuals and enterprises that use or derive fisheries resources in accordance with their respective traditions (McGowan, 2003, p. 35). Unfortunately, as it can be seen from the movie, overfishing threatens all these sectors of fishing industry. Ethical Issues in Fishing Industry Fishing industry and the policies that govern it has a wide impact to the living conditions of significant number of people in the world. Fishing is a very crucial source of employment, social and economic benefits, food, and foundation of traditions and cultures (Barnett, 2006, p. 116). Despite the realization that fisheries resources can be depleted, these resources were treated as though they are inexhaustible. However, the recent increase in demand of fish and fish products across the world has brought to light the need to consider how fisheries resources are treated (Vasil'ev, 2011, p. 30). Most expert opinions and researches have indicated that fisheries resources cannot be sustainable in the long run (Kaiser & Forsberg, 2001, p. 191). Out of these facts, ethical issues in fisheries have arisen and they relate to ecosystem and human wellbeing. Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO] (2005) has discussed the right to food, overfishing, ecosystem degradation, poverty as the main ethical issues facing fishing industry. i) Right to Food The first ethical issue in fisheries as noted by FAO is the right to food. FAO observes that fish is a major source of both nutrition and livelihood to millions of poorest people in the world (FAO, 2005, p. 9). Responding to wide spread and persistent hunger, the 1996 Rome Declaration on World Food Security and the World Food Summit Plan of Action reiterated the right of every person to sufficient food and the basic right to be free from hunger as stipulated in the

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Media major essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Media major - Essay Example The latter are unmanned microprocessor based measuring gadgets. Crittercams are animal borne and thus provide continuous footage of habitats and animal habits that had previously not been thought possible. Another such technological tool is the Positron Emission Tomography (PET). A minute quantity of positron emitting radioactive material is ingested into the body, in such a manner that it reaches an organ or area suspected of being diseased. The emitted positrons are annihilated on coming into contact with electrons and the resultant release of pure energy is detected by sophisticated machinery. This provides an image of that organ or area, which is of significant use in diagnosis. PET has been of great help in diagnosing cancer, brain disorders and heart disease. It is an excellent non – invasive method for differentiating between malignant and non – malignant tumors. Thus, a process of nuclear physics has found widespread use in medical diagnosis. Crittercams were initially used for underwater photography. They have provided considerable knowledge about animals. Crittercams make it possible to film animals from a distance and image them remotely. Many of the programs telecast on the National Geographic Channel are taken with Crittercams (Haraway, 2007, Pp 258-259). Operation of Crittercams is unmanned, and there is no necessity of a camera operator. Crittercam cameras are attached to animals and one video was taken by installing a Crittercam on a seal’s back. Wherever the seal swam, videos were shot, which provided considerable information to scientists, regarding the Hawaiian monk seals and their ability to save the life of other animals. Greg Marshall, a marine biologist invented this technology, to find out about the life of marine creatures (Wichlegren, 10/23/98, P 8). Marshall and other scientists have conducted various experiments with Crittercams, by attaching the latter to seals, turtles and sperm whales.

Love and Suicide ( Book Love in the time of Cholera) Research Proposal

Love and Suicide ( Book Love in the time of Cholera) - Research Proposal Example This story is one of the most remarkable pieces of literature, that portrays the theme of unrequited love, described by Thomas Pynchon describes as â€Å"one of those few rare works, that can even return our worn souls to us." (The New York Times Book Review) This superficial melodramatic plot is a disguise for a satiric examination of elements of love, ageing and disease. The novelist also explores the issue of suicide and gerent phobia. The process of aging, death and decay forms an important theme in the novel. In a style typical of Garcà ­a Mà ¡rquez there is a circular pattern to aging and the author on many occasions observes the reversal of roles of parents and children. The novelist keenly observes the process of aging and brings about the details of its encroachment. The suicide of Jeremiah de Saint-Amour was a result of his fear of old age. He planned to die at the age of sixty because he was not sure that he would be a productive human being at that age. This feeling of being unproductive, prompted him to plan his suicide years ago. Jeremiah Saint-Amours death inspires Urbino to meditate on his own death. He dwells especially on the infirmities that accompany it. On reading the novel, one realizes that the fears of old age were shared by many in his society. Ofelia, Fermina Daza’s daughter does not approve of her mother’s relationship with a man because of her age. She finds the idea of love in the old as ridiculous and revolting Another instance of suicide in the novel is that which is committed by Amà ©rica Vicuà ±ia, the fourteen year old ward of Florentino. She was a blood relative of Florentino who came under his care as a little girl with "the scrapes of elementary school on her knees." He spends a year cultivating her by spending childish afternoons with her and giving her ice-creams. He seduces her and wins her confidence. When Florentino is on the riverboat with Fermina Daza, the heartbroken Amà ©rica Vicuà ±ia commits suicide. Love in the

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

The spirit of 1968 politicised everyday life. Discuss Essay

The spirit of 1968 politicised everyday life. Discuss - Essay Example From the streets of First World cities like Memphis, London and Paris to Communist ones like Belgrade and Warsaw, protests, many of them violent, marked the year that was 1968. Civil right protesters, students and instructors, professionals, labour union groups, all trooped to the streets to denounce what they saw was imperialistic, oppressive, repressive and simply unjust status quo. In short, 1968 was simply a year of chaos and anarchy. The Guardian called it the ‘Year of the Revolt’ and that was not an exaggeration. The events of 1968 were in themselves overwhelming, but more so because media, principally television, brought the images of these events into the intimacy of homes. The spirit of 1968 succeeded in changing the world chiefly because it changed the everyday life of people. It empowered, it prodded and it inspired people to take stock of their political world and go out in the streets and have a say on how things are done, whether rightly or wrongly. It simply politicised everyday life. Students became a power to be reckoned with, rattling and changing government policies and perspectives. Students, professionals, and the working-class were all part of the rampaging social segments that made 1968 the year that changed the history of the world. To start with, 1968 was no ordinary year. The global scene was awash with arresting and dramatic political developments that would have naturally stirred attention and emotions. At the very first month of the year, the North Vietnamese Army and the Vietcong caught the Americans by surprise when they launched the Tet Offensive, so called because it was made on the 31st of January, which happened to be Tet Nguyen Dan or Vietnam’s first day of the year and its most important holiday. The Vietnam War that the US government was waging had previously already earned mounting protests at home and overseas because Americans felt it was not their war to fight and people abroad

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Hurrican Katrinia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hurrican Katrinia - Essay Example aled to both the contractors who designed and built the wall as well as the Army Corps Engineers the nature of the weak layer of soft soil that made the base of the floodwall’s steel piling foundation. In addition, the primary design for the steel sheet foundation for the walls indicated a suggested depth of 10 feet having the calculations made with wall base at 12.8 feet. Furthermore, a New Orleans engineer claimed that the depth was later on increased to a depth of up to 17 feet. Nonetheless, although the corps maintained their claim that the wall depth was 17 feet, investigations carried out by a forensic engineering group from Louisiana State University by use of sonar revealed that the piling sheets were 10 feet (Shrum, 2014). Also, investigations of the constructions on the Industrial Canal and London Avenue levees showed that they were below the stated standards. Other reports indicated that homeowners along the 17th Street Canal close to where the site of breach appear ed had previously reported about a constant leakage from the canal that flooded their yards a year before the Hurricane Katrina. Therefore, aside from the fact that the storm heave formed remarkable subterranean pressures under the floodwalls making the soil under the sheet weaker structural problems in the walls played a role as well (Shrum, 2014). Poor levee maintenance was another underlying factor, whereby, investigations suggest that a probable trigger of the breach on the 17th Street Canal levee may be due to a fallen large oak tree planted rather too close to the levee base. In addition, on the London Avenue Canal, burrowing animals had formed enormous through-ways that undermined the already weakened foundations. Therefore, the local levee boards responsible for maintaining had not done their work as they should have. In addition, the destruction of cypress trees and various vegetations that had previously grew in the brackish waters in the intersection between the Gulf of Mexico

Monday, September 23, 2019

Parenting Today Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Parenting Today - Essay Example Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help children improve their behavioral problems associated with poverty. Family education and support can help parents of poor children get child development education and use it to improve psychological development of children. If I would have to design an intervention method, I would focus on meeting children’s mental and physical health needs because it would help them become healthy and productive citizens in future. Some key ingredients to effective co-parenting include cooperation with the other parent, being honest to the other parent, showing self accountability, allowing children to benefit from the other parent, and taking mutual decisions is favor of children (Carter, 2009). Family rituals and routines are important because they are related to the well-being of family cultures and make children keep the foundations of their family cultures intact. The family rituals that I remember from my childhood include celebration of birthdays, celebrations of achievements, and respect for elders and

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Public Library - Architectural Essay Example for Free

Public Library Architectural Essay * Introduction * Definition A library (from French librairie; Latin liber = book) is an organized collection of information resources made accessible to a defined community for reference or borrowing. It provides physical or digital access to material, and may be a physical building or room, or a virtual space, or both. A librarys collection can include books, periodicals, newspapers, manuscripts, films,maps, prints, documents, microform, CDs, cassettes, videotapes, DVDs, Blu-ray Discs, e-books, audio books, databases, and other formats. Libraries range in size from a few shelves of books to several million items. * A public library â€Å"should encourage the following uses: browsing, seeking, studying, meeting, and borrowing. Major trends likely to influence library design in the foreseeable future include: a 30% increase in pensioners by 2025, and a significant diminution in those of working age; a significant increase in those with a higher education; more part- time work; more jobs in knowledge-based areas, and fewer in manufacturing. * History The concept of the ‘public library’ evolved from the Guildhall Library in 15th century London. In the 17th and 18th centuries, most libraries were created by gift or endowment, but by the beginning of the 19th century, these had generally been superseded by either institutional (e. g. those attached to mechanics’ institutes or literary and philosophical societies) or subscription libraries. The Public Libraries Act of 1850 was one of several social reforms of the mid- 19th century, and was generally intended to create ‘free libraries’, available to all classes of society throughout the country. The first two purpose- designed public libraries were Norwich and Warrington, in 1857. The Public Libraries Act of 1919 further extended library provision. Besides the lending library and the reading room, most libraries now had a reference department, and many had separate children’s departments. After 1918 there was a considerable increase in technical and commercial libraries (over 115 by 1924). By the 1930~~ most libraries had adopted open access (as opposed to books being available over a counter via the library staff), which required more sophisticated classification and cataloguing systems the Dewey system was generally adopted. Increasing literacy and leisure time plus the ‘information explosion’ make it important to plan for maximum flexibility and for future expansion. New techniques are changing methods of control, indexing and retrieval. The growing availability of computerized information (particularly on compact discs and on-line electronic systems) means there is a change in emphasis from book storage to information exchange utilizing computer equipment. These require additional ventilation and secure power supplies, and suitable lighting levels for users. The wide availability of computers means that the problem of space, and particularly the location of a library in a single building, may no longer be critical. * Space Requirements * Public services A central library may serve in the region of one million customers per year, with a peak daily count of approximately 5000 to 6000 people and a peak hourly count of up to 400. The following service areas may be provided * Branch library May be included as a discrete section of a central library, probably near the entrance, and cater for more popular books and related material. There will be only a few thousand volumes, acting as a ‘taster’ invitation to what is available elsewhere in the library. The library may be divided into subject areas, perhaps with defined enquiry points. Study spaces, browsing areas, and publicly available computer terminals can also be provided in each subject area. The various areas may be open plan, but must be visually defined (possibly by variations in lighting, different finishes and planting). * Older teenage section An area for this group is desirable (fiction and non-fiction) and should be  located between the children’s library and main lending library (literature and humanities sections). * Children’s library Occupying approximately 300 m2, with roughly 12000 volumes for ages up to 14 and their careers, this area should have its own identity, and demonstrate to all children that visiting the library is a safe and enjoyable experience. There must be good visibility to maximize child security and safety; it should also be difficult for children to wander out of this area. * There should be a sequence of information books for all ages and sections for: * pre-school (there should be ‘kinderboxes’, shelves with picture books, novelty cushions, child chairs) * early school years (easy-reader books, with appropriate shelves and browser units) * primary school years (stories, with appropriate shelves and browser units) m young teenage (novels, with appropriate shelves and browser units). Spoken-word cassettes and other media should also be available. In addition, provide ten study places, eight browsing seats and an enquiry desk for two staff. * Children‘s activities room A room for up to 35 children may be required for a variety of activities (63m2). * Exhibition area Easily accessible from the main entrance, but with a distinct identity and with suitable security, an area for exhibitions is desirable (40m2). * Lavatories The requirement for customers is 38m2 and also 15m2 for the children’s library, which should include a nappy changing room. Depending on the overall plan, one or two sets of staff lavatories will be required (each of 32m2). * Meeting rooms- Include one room for 100 people (200m2 in total), with divider to separate the room in a proportion of 60:40. Chair storage and simple catering facilities are also required. A small room for about six people is also required. Access may be required when other parts of the library are shut; good access from entrance(s) is therefore required. * Special collection library This area may be required in larger or specialized libraries. An adjoining librarian’s office is necessary. * Refreshments/coffee bar For 50 customers maximum, providing drinks, snacks and light meals (105m2). * Sales point An area to promote sales is required (this may be no more than a display case): the strategic location is important, but it may be combined with another area (13m2). * Study desks These should be suitable for use with personal computers (which may be the customer’s own machine, necessitating simple plug- in compatibility). The integration of PCs with study furniture is very important. Two power sockets are also required. * Art in architecture Libraries are often considered excellent places in which to display local (or national) art, either in the form of permanent murals or sculpture, designed as an integral part of the building, or in facilities for temporary exhibitions. * Subject departments Organization of a library into subject departments has always been a consideration. * Related Local Projects * Bohol Provincial Library and Information Center New Capitol Complex, Marapao Street, Tagbilaran City, Bohol * Alaminos City Library Alaminos City Hall, Alaminos City, Pangasinan * Butuan City Library J. Rosales Ave. , Butuan City. * Cavite Provincial Library Legislative Building, Provl Capitol, Trece Martires City * Leocadio Alonsagay Dioso Memorial Public Library (Municipal Library of Pandan, Antique) Pandan, Antique, Philippines * Marikina City Public Library V. Gomez St. cor. Shoe Ave. , San Roque, Marikina City * National Library of the Philippines T. M. Kalaw Ermita 1000, Philippines * Quezon City Public Library (Several Branches) * San Carlos City Public Library (Negros Occidental) 610 Elm Street, San Carlos, CA 94070 * Raul S. Roco Library (Naga City Public Library) City Hall Compound, J. Miranda Ave. , Naga City * Zamboanga del Norte Public Library. Santa Cruz, Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines * Supporting Datum * A possible arrangement of a central library could typically be as follows (The Architects’ Handbook) * Business At 184m2, this department contains 2100 volumes covering all aspects of business information (local, national and international). Customers will include: those hoping to set up their own business, those undertaking research to develop their existing business, and students. Some queries may come via fax or phone. Computerized information resources will probably be more prevalent here than in other departments. Includes 40 study places and an enquiry point for two staff. * Community With 9000 volumes (300m2), this holds social sciences and all quick-reference works (e. g. directories, yearbooks, timetables, etc. ). Includes 30 study places and an enquiry desk for three staff. Customers will be coming for both quick fact-finding and for longer-term study: any potential conflict therefore needs to be resolved. * Humanities Department for arts, recreational pursuits (e. g. gardening), religion, music (books and scores), sound recordings (music cassettes and compact discs), and videos for hire. With 495m2, 22 000 volumes, 9000 recordings (including videos), and 10500 sheet music. Includes 12 study spaces, four browsing seats and an enquiry desk for three staff. Note that there is a noise problem with customers browsing through music cases, which can be distracting in the study areas. * Literature and language Department for adult fiction (9000 volumes), large-print fiction, spoken- word cassettes, multi-media, drama (9000 volumes), single copies and play sets (286m2), covering English and foreign languages. Includes 12 study spaces, four browsing seats and an enquiry desk for two staff. Local studies/history 3000 volumes on public shelves (230m2); 50 study places; enquiry desk for three staff. This area will be used by short-term browsers (e. g. tourists) and for long-term study (students and researchers). It will also be used by those wanting information about local statutory agencies, and those looking for a quiet study area. Environmental conditions for this area must be designed in accordance with BS 5454: 1989. * People and places For information books on travel (guides and travel/adventure), biographies, and human geography. 15000 volumes (240m2); 15 study places; four browsing places; enquiry desk for two staff. * Science and technology Area with 11000 volumes (200m2), covering computing and pure and applied sciences: 20 study places; no browsing seats; enquiry desk for two staff. Access and circulation areas generally As mentioned above, generally all public and staff areas should be accessible to people with disabilities, particularly those with sight or hearing impairments. * Other considerations are as follows (The Architects’ Handbook) * Customer services/reception An informal and welcoming atmosphere is required, as this is the first major point of contact for new customers and where existing customers can resolve queries (e.g. about availability and overdue books); space is required for three staff (51m2). Estimated peak daily level of registration updates is approximately 200; estimated peak level of enquiries, approximately 600. The area should allow for satisfactory queuing arrangements. The general layout requirements are for: a professional, inviting and efficient reception area; clear layout and instructions for customers; maximum flexibility in staff resources; suitable supervision of customers; and suitable staff security. * Internal circulation The flow of people and materials (particularly the two-way flow of trolleys) should be made as easy as possible. Note that circulation areas provide opportunities for vandalism and concealment of theft, and should therefore: be kept to a minimum; follow a logical route; allow visual control by staff (closed-circuit TV may be installed); allow segregation of staff and public areas; allow segregation to enable secure out- of-hours use to specified areas; and allow easy emergency evacuation. * Internal vertical circulation This should be by lift and stairs, and possibly escalator. Lifts should: allow movement of staff, books and materials to all floor levels; be linked with the book sorting office; provide public access to main lending floors; provide suitable access for out-of-hours use. No more than four lifts should be provided. Security generally The key those wanting information about local statutory agencies, and those looking for a quiet study area. Environmental conditions for this area must be designed in accordance with BS 5454: 1989. * People and places For information books on travel (guides and travel/adventure), biographies, and human geography. 15000 volumes (240m2); 15 study places; four browsing places; enquiry desk for two staff. * Science and technology Area with 11000 volumes (200m2), covering computing and pure and applied sciences: 20 study places; no browsing seats; enquiry desk for two staff. Access and circulation areas generally As mentioned above, generally all public and staff areas should be accessible to people with disabilities, particularly those with sight or hearing impairments. * Other considerations are as follows (The Architects’ Handbook) * Customer services/reception An informal and welcoming atmosphere is required, as this is the first major point of contact for new customers and where existing customers can resolve queries (e. g. about availability and overdue books); space is required for three staff (51m2). Estimated peak daily level of registration updates is approximately 200; estimated peak level of enquiries, approximately 600. The area should allow for satisfactory queuing arrangements. The general layout requirements are for: a professional, inviting and efficient reception area; clear layout and instructions for customers; maximum flexibility in staff resources; suitable supervision of customers; and suitable staff security. * Internal circulation The flow of people and materials (particularly the two-way flow of trolleys) should be made as easy as possible. Note that circulation areas provide opportunities for vandalism and concealment of theft, and should therefore: be kept to a minimum; follow a logical route; allow visual control by staff (closed-circuit TV may be installed); allow segregation of staff and public areas; allow segregation to enable secure out- of-hours use to specified areas; and allow easy emergency evacuation. * Internal vertical circulation This should be by lift and stairs, and possibly escalator. Lifts should: allow movement of staff, books and materials to all floor levels; be linked with the book sorting office; provide public access to main lending floors; provide suitable access for out-of-hours use. No more than four lifts should be provided. Security generally The key considerations concern the control of access between staff and public areas (both during and outside opening hours), and prevention of theft. These issues can be addressed by: strategic location of staff enquiry points, with line-of- sight control; CCTV cameras; electronic book sensors at exit points; and security personnel. * Trolleys Allowance must be made for trolleys: for instance, by providing suitable protection to prevent damage to wall surfaces, adequate door widths, and suitable flooring (studded and ribbed flooring is not suitable). * Entry/access areas One main entrance and two others are required, preferably separate: * Main entrance foyer/lobby: ( 190m2) should be clear and inviting, and be sufficiently spacious to cater both for visitors who have a specific destination and those who may wish to wander around. * Public out-of-hours entrance: must provide a short and secure access route from the street to the meeting rooms etc. It could be combined with the main entrance, but a lift solely for out-of- hours use is not acceptable. * Staff/service entrance: to be a safe and secure area, particularly for staff leaving after dark. Queuing space should be allowed for 40 people to wait (at 0. 5 m2/person, 20m2 is required). * In-counters (51m2) There will be one central counter for the whole building, after which customers will either move to other departments, move to customer reception, or leave. Peak hourly levels of customers are approximately 250-300, with a peak hourly level of returns of approximately 1000 items. Space is required for three staff plus computer terminals for customers. The layout must allow for clear and direct flows. * Out-counters (38m2) All items issued or renewed will be from the out-counter and there may be more than one, depending on overall layout. Note that some customers may wish to return to other areas of the library (e. g. the coffee bar) after visiting the out- counter. Peak levels are as for the in-counter. Space is required for two staff plus computer terminals for customers. The layout must allow for clear and direct flows: in particular, customers not wishing to borrow items must be able to avoid becoming involved with this area. * Library returns bin This is required in the entrance area for returns during times when the library is closed. It must be a secure unit. * Self-issue terminals The space required is 3 m2/terminal and at least three terminals are required at various points in the library. * Smartcards The inclusion of a ‘smartcard’ system is increasingly likely, to allow customers to pay for services (e. g. photocopying, overdue charges, borrowing videos, etc. ). The machines will be located throughout the library. * Admin and staff accommodation In addition to a general admin office space of roughly 53 m2, provision will also include the following. * Enquiry desks These should ideally be located so that they can service more than one department at quiet times or during staff shortages. * Librarian’s office (20m2) The base for the manager in charge of the whole building, the room must be close to the administrative support and interview rooms. Apart from everyday managerial tasks, the room will be used for small discussions with up to two people and project work. * Library manager‘s office ( 13m2) This includes one office for two assistants, shared desk, and also room for small meetings of one to three people. Privacy is necessary, although easy access/overview is required for counters and customer services. The office should be located near the branch library. * Delivery area (16m2) There will be a daily ‘in’ delivery of boxes containing: books from this library, but returned to other libraries; books requested from other libraries; and new books. The ‘out’ delivery will be of books sorted in the sorting office, and books requested by other libraries. This area will also act as a short-term reception and dispatch area for other equipment, furniture, exhibition equipment, etc. , and sufficient space should be allowed for this. * Interview room (14m2) To be used by all staff for private meetings, appraisal interviews, meeting the public and recruitment interviews, the room must accommodate up to four people and ensure confidentiality is maintained. * Local studies reserve stack ( 150m2) Most local studies stock will be reference only, in closed-access storage areas, obtained by staff on customer request: access systems therefore need to be quick and simple. (Book stacks must be designed in accordance with BS 5454: 1989. ) A local studies workroom (38m2) will usually be required adjacent to the local studies area. * Reserve stacks (155m2) Certain sections of stock will be housed in closed-access rolling stack storage, including: seasonal overflow (fewer items are borrowed during the summer and over Christmas); reference stock; music sets; play sets. The weight of rolling stack storage is substantial and will need to be taken into account in structural calculations. * Secure area for exhibits A secure storage area is  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœsmartcard’ system is increasingly likely, to allow customers to pay for services (e. g. photocopying, overdue charges, borrowing videos, etc. ). The machines will be located throughout the library. * Admin and staff accommodation In addition to a general admin office space of roughly 53 m2, provision will also include the following. * Enquiry desks These should ideally be located so that they can service more than one department at quiet times or during staff shortages. * Librarian’s office (20m2) The base for the manager in charge of the whole building, the room must be close to the administrative support and interview rooms. Apart from everyday managerial tasks, the room will be used for small discussions with up to two people and project work. * Library manager‘s office ( 13m2) This includes one office for two assistants, shared desk, and also room for small meetings of one to three people. Privacy is necessary, although easy access/overview is required for counters and customer services. The office should be located near the branch library. * Delivery area (16m2) There will be a daily ‘in’ delivery of boxes containing: books from this library, but returned to other libraries; books requested from other libraries; and new books. The ‘out’ delivery will be of books sorted in the sorting office, and books requested by other libraries. This area will also act as a short-term reception and dispatch area for other equipment, furniture, exhibition equipment, etc. , and sufficient space should be allowed for this. * Interview room (14m2) To be used by all staff for private meetings, appraisal interviews, meeting the public and recruitment interviews, the room must accommodate up to four people and ensure confidentiality is maintained. * Local studies reserve stack ( 150m2) Most local studies stock will be reference only, in closed-access storage areas, obtained by staff on customer request: access systems therefore need to be quick and simple. (Book stacks must be designed in accordance with BS 5454: 1989. ) A local studies workroom (38m2) will usually be required adjacent to the local studies area. * Reserve stacks (155m2) Certain sections of stock will be housed in closed-access rolling stack storage, including: seasonal overflow (fewer items are borrowed during the summer and over Christmas); reference stock; music sets; play sets. The weight of rolling stack storage is substantial and will need to be taken into account in structural calculations. * Secure area for exhibits A secure storage area is required, with easy access to both the delivery area and the exhibition area. * Security control room (17m2) This acts as the base for control attendants, and for the closed- circuit TV system. * Sorting office (63m2) Required for sorting all returns. The main divisions are: for return (by trolley) to the various departments; for return to other libraries; for special requests (e.g. customer reservations); and for particular processes (e. g. book repair). Wall shelving for 1000 items is required for temporary storage during peak flows or staff shortages. This area also acts as a supervisory area for the counters and the customer reception, allowing the easy allocation of additional staff when necessary and for general troubleshooting duties. * Staff room (115m2) With a total staff of approximately 50, the staff room should accommodate seating for 30 and also be suitable for relaxation, social gatherings and informal meetings. During special events, staff will work outside normal working hours so there should be an adjacent kitchen area suitable for making light meals and drinks; a dishwasher may be desirable. Staff lockers (25m2) are ideally located in a separate room and storage for wet clothing is also required. * Stock workroom (127m2) For four to five staff, its functions are: processing books from the delivery area; repairing stock; binding requirements; stock exchanges; inter-library loans for music sets. Wall shelving is required for approximately 2000 books. * Subject staff workroom (152m2) Required for processing complex enquiries and selecting new stock, these rooms are needed in humanities, literature and science libraries; for six librarians and support staff (maximum). Wall shelving will be required. * System room (38m2) Needed to house computer equipment for library circulation and other information systems. * Training room (58m2) Required for meetings and training sessions, facilities must be suitable for current technology and equipment. * Shelf storage Typical examples based on 900mm shelf module are: adult non-fiction37 vols/900mm run of shelving adult fiction 30 sheet music 60 junior fiction 44 junior non-fiction 74 All shelving units should be four shelves high except: local studies 6 shelves high music scores 3 (overall height to be as four-shelf unit) children’s non-fiction ditto * Other areas * sick room (10m2) * stationery store (25m2) * general stores (four; approximately 1000m2 in total) * cleaners’ room/store (29m2) * WCs; shower if possible. * Preferred space standards, from the Follett Report, are: * one space for 6 full-time-equivalent students. * 2. 39m2 per reader (subsequent research indicates that 2. 5-3. 0mZ may be required) * reader modules to be minimum of 900 x 600mm * information technology (IT) spaces to be 1200 x 800mm. * Building Services (The Architects’ Handbook) Heat reduction is a major problem, and is exacerbated by the use of computers. Air- conditioning is expensive and environmentally undesirable and should therefore only be used where essential, natural ventilation being the preferred option (traditional window ventilation, however, can be a security risk). Service zones are required above ceilings and below floors: ventilation systems, heating and electrical fittings, and information technology units, must be designed to allow flexibility of layout, and must allow for movement of shelving without causing disruption. Distribution cabling for networked computer systems and terrestrial/satellite aerials also needs to be allowed for. Noise in libraries is a problem, both from external sources and between different activity areas within the building. Acoustic considerations must therefore be carefully considered. * Maximum Floor Area Allowance per occupant (occupant load factor) from International Building Code Reading rooms 50 net Stack area 100 gross * The loading applies to stack room floors that support nonmobile, double- faced library book stacks, subject to the following limitations (International Building Code) * The nominal book stack unit height shall not exceed 90 inches * The nominal shelf depth shall not exceed 12 inches for each face * Parallel rows of double-faced book stacks shall be separated by aisles not less than 36 inches wide. References/s: * TIME-SAVER STANDARDS FOR BUILDING TYPES 2nd edition, International Edition Edited by JOSEPH De CHIARA and JOHN HANCOCK CALLENDER 1983 by McGraw-Hill Book Co-Singapore 2nd printing 1987 * The Architects’ Handbook Edited by Quentin Pickard RIBA 2002 Blackwell Science Ltd * 2012 International Building Code First Printing: May 2011 Second Printing: June 2011 * http://readphilippines. com/Forum/viewtopic. php? f=33t=74 * http://paarl. wikispaces. com/Libraries#Public%20Libraries * http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Library * http://web. nlp. gov. ph/nlp/.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Naturalistic Observation Research Results

Naturalistic Observation Research Results Observation is categorised as one of the core skills of user research. Naturalistic Observation is a research method that involves observing the subjects in their natural environment without intruding or changing it in any way. The observer is required to carefully watch the naturally occurring behaviour without letting the subjects know that they are being observed. This type of research is advantageous primarily because it permits the researcher to directly observe the subject in a natural setting. It allows the researcher/observer to study aspects that cannot be manipulated in a laboratory due to ethical concerns. It also serves the purpose of supporting the external validity of the research as the findings that are observed are occurring in the natural environment. Study: 1 Date: 19th July, 2014. Day of the week: Saturday. Time: 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. (morning) and 6:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. (evening). Location: Cafà © Coffee Day, C G S Chamber, Ground Floor, Nagarjuna Hills, Near Road Number 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad – 500034. Near GVK One. Duration of observation: each session was of an hour each (60 minutes). Collectively, two hours (120 minutes) of observation. Not so important, yet Observer: Prakriti Dasgupta. Background: I did two sessions of observation of both an hour each and on the same day at Cafà © Coffee Day, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. The first at 11:00 A.M. 12:00 P.M. in the morning and the second one at 6:00P.M. – 7:00P.M.in the evening. The whole purpose of carrying out two sets of observation was solely based the concept of finding out whether there is a difference in the crowd and the way they behave when they visit the Cafà © in the late hours of the morning in contrast to those that visit the Cafà © in the evening. Layout of the Cafà ©: The Cafà © remains open for the most part of the day as well as night. It is located in one of the busiest streets in the city and therefore caters to a large variety of customers ranging from early morning office goers to college students. It can be identified as a â€Å"hang-out spot† for a group of friends or just a place where lonely soles sit down with a cup of coffee and a book, spending their time the way they desire. Within the first fifteen minutes, I observed different kinds of customer behaviour patterns. The first session consisted of people who were present at the Cafà © to attend an official meeting with their fellow office co-workers presumably over breakfast, while there were others who were resting which I assume is due to the hectic night shifts at their workplace. This is more or less confirmed by the way they were dressed and the tired look on their faces. Stages of observation: Systematic observation of the Customers: Entry of the customers Abiding by the social norm of standing in a queue Purchase The wait after the purchase is made Finding seats preferably Between 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Entry of the customers: With due respect to the fact that every individual is different and behaves differently, we can categorise them into those which are in great hurry and those which have plenty of time in their hand. On entering the Cafà ©, some of them directly stood in the queue, without wasting a single moment to even look around, while there were some who directly grabbed food from the compartments and then stood in the queue. Ignoring the ones that were in a hurry, when we shift our attention to the ones which aren’t, we find them to be looking around, with calm expression on their faces. They look like the ones who do not have to meet any deadlines. There were also a small group of girls who had friends waiting for them. They were carrying school bags and were dressed in casuals which indicates that they were college students. While in a queue: There was no interaction between the people who were standing in the queue. They kept themselves busy by looking at their phones and listening to music. Some attended calls while one lady kept justifying over the phone as to why she was late and wasn’t at her workplace yet. Two men and one woman took out their wallets and purse respectively. The group of young girls kept giggling and laughing about a certain boy whom they find attractive, back in college. At this point, at around 11:33 A.M. a well dressed woman (L 1) rushes into the Cafà © and tries to persuade a slightly older man, ahead in the queue if he would allow her to make her purchase before he did. She justified her request by saying that she was late for work and had two kids waiting in the car and they had to be dropped to school. The man, seemed to be in two minds which I assumed, owing to his facial expression but however was convinced and allowed the lady to stand in the queue before him. At this point, another woman (L 2) who had been waiting in the queue for the past 15 minutes, raises her voice to object and asks the lady (L 1) to go back and stand in the queue. Clearly she (L 2) was late for work as well. As soon as she (L 2) objected, all the others standing in the queue begin to support her. This was followed by several other verbal objections from other people standing in the queue. Some of them even exchanged dirty looks. A small argument took place among them where the lady with the kids (L 1) used her kids as bait and the other (L 2) asked her not to use her children as an excuse for violating certain social norms. Ultimately the lady (L 1) was forcefully ejected from the line. Having no choice, she went and stood right at the end of the queue and awaited her turn. Purchase: Most of the customers carried a bag with them and not a single customer was standing in the queue without a phone in their hand. This reflects how man is unable to move around without technology. It has become a necessity more than luxury. One important thing that I noticed was that none of them took a look at the menu card or what the cafe served which indicated that they were regular customers at the cafe and they were aware of what was available. However, there were four young boys who were seated at one corner of the cafe, intently looking at the menu and discussing what each of them would like to have. Most of the people in the cafe took the coffee and sandwiches they purchased and ran out of the cafe while only a few sat at the cafe and had their food. There was this little girl with her mother who looked at the cupcakes on the counter and then very carefully and ordered one for herself. The wait: Most people crowded around the counter, awaiting the food that they had just ordered with numbered bills in their hands. They were restless and impatient. They kept taking a glance at their watch in a frequent manner. The group of college girls kept enquiring for their order every five minutes and they ultimately managed to annoy the manager seated at the counter. Most of them opened their bags and wallets and kept the excess change they had inside it. Along with that they either kept their phones in their pockets of inside their bag. Since, almost all of them had ordered a cup of coffee irrespective of whether they had purchased anything else to eat with their hot beverage or not, it was seen that they took the coffee with their right hand and simultaneously picked up a lid and a straw with their left. These were the ones that were in a rush and as they ran out of the cafe as soon as they received their order. The ones that were eating in the cafe carefully carried the tra y to their seats making an effort not to spill the coffee. Finding preferable seats: It was observed that if people did not get the seats of their choice they simply stepped out of the cafe. Nobody waited for the seats to become empty. This indicated that there were other choices available outside as well from where they could acquire food. There was a group of five men, who entered the cafe at around 11:47 A.M. who left as soon as they failed to find a completely empty table. This also indicates the fact that people are not ready to sit with other unknown people even when one or two seats were empty in the other occupied tables. Difference in the ‘Type’ of customers that visited the cafà © from 11:00A.M. 12:00P.M. in the morning and those who visited the cafà © in the evening from 6:00P.PM. 7:00P.M. : It is important to note that the crowd that the cafe catered to, at the peak office hours was different from that they catered to in the evenings. In the evenings, the people who visited the cafe were mostly the young crowd consisting of teenagers in contrast to the office goers in the morning. The cafe catered mostly to single customers in the morning who stop by the cafe to pick up their breakfast but, in the evenings most of the people are in groups who are sitting and talking about different insignificant things that bother them, sipping their piping hot coffees, biting into their sandwiches and partially gossiping. The environment is relaxed and nobody seems to be in a hurry. The manager at the counter also seems to be settling the accounts in peace and there is no time crunch and deadline s that need to be met. Observations and interpretations: The lady objected and stopped the other lady from jumping the queue. As soon as she opposed to it, there were other people in the queue who supported her. Violation of social norms such as cutting into queues is not an appropriate thing to do and is not acceptable by the crowd as such. Perhaps jumping queues would have been an easier thing to do in the evenings when the crowd is more or less understanding and easy going. Early research indicates that people were reluctant to challenge queue jumpers which basically suggests that our spontaneous social order maintenance is weak. Milgram’s experiment also concludes that in only 10% of the occasion’s queue jumpers were physically ejected from the line. On about half of the occasion people hardly cared to react or take an initiative to stop it. Milgram attempts to explain that most people are too scared to intervene or challenge a queue jumper because challenging queue jumpers could mean losing your own place in the line. Th ere is chance that a fight may take place and everyone is delayed while it is being sorted out. This reflects on the idea that social systems have to tolerate some deviance otherwise they might hastily collapse. Moreover, when people stand in a queue, in a coffee shop, group formation is difficult and as a consequence of which social order is extremely weak. People tolerate queue jumpers as they themselves want to avoid social disorder. People left the coffee shop when they did not find a completely empty table because people do not like to sit and share the table with complete strangers. Some of the people took out their wallets as soon as the stepped in to the coffee shop which indicates three things: they might be in a hurry or they are running late for some important work, or they are extremely hungry or they prefer to be prepared before they start on doing anything, in this case, standing in the queue. People are very impatient and restless and they do not like waiting. Women are more impatient than men are. Men have a tendency to wait quietly. Although, men remain quiet, their faces give away their restlessness. In spite of that their patience level is higher than that of women. This aspect however, does not fit into the stereotype which says that women are more patient than men. Young girls are attention seeking, therefore, they try and attract attention towards themselves by their gestures and the way they speak to one another. They make use of inappropriate words to even greet each other, for example: â€Å"Hi bitch†. The word â€Å"bitch† is being casually used in this context and is not meant literally. The use of crass language among the girls and the boys of this generation is basically an attempt on their part to appear â€Å"cool† and popular among their peers. Also, they cannot stay without taking a glance at their cell phones every now and then. These assumptions and generalizations are purely made on the basis of this particular observation. They differ in every case. Study: 2 Date: 19th July, 2014. Day of the week: Saturday. Time: 3:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Location: Lamakaan, an open cultural space. In Lane Adjacent To CBay, Opposite GVK One, Road No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034. Duration of observation: 2 hours (120 Minutes) Background: I attended a discussion, on whether the education system kills creativity or not. The discussion was held at Lamakaan. Being an observer I was restricted to participate in the discussion actively. Several eminent educators, mentors, school/college professors and industrialists from different sectors were present, who were willing to share their views and opinions on the matter that had been raised for discussion. There were 36 people who attended the discussion. Observation and interpretations: The entire event was well organised and effectively carried out by Man1. The discussion proceeded in an orderly manner. Before the discussion began, there was a session where all the people present for the discussion had to introduce themselves. This session was overlooked by Man1 himself. This was the first instance of interaction between the participants present. This session was characterised by appreciation for fellow participants, to a certain extent only. Man1 exhibited leadership qualities. His characteristics were those of a democratic leader. He did not restrict the participants in anyway. The discussion was more or less informal in nature. Although the discussion started on a calm and controlled tone, the environment in the room soon changed. A series of heated arguments, aggressive gestures, difference in opinions and eventually conformity among all the participants is how the discussion can be described. I observed different social behaviour throughout the course of the discussion. In order to simplify the task of observing, I named a few fellow participants who were actively taking part in the discussion. Members: Man2, Man3, Lady1, Lady2, Lady3, Girl1, Girl2. To be noted: all the members taking part in the discussion were well read and were aware of the current scenario prevailing in the education sector and the impact of the flawed system. Man2 was an influential speaker. He managed to convince all the people in the room by stating relevant facts, but failed to convince Lady1. His justification for the statements he had made, did not appeal to her. She constantly scrutinised his argument. Both were aggressive in nature and constantly argued throughout the discussion. In due course of the argument, Man3 who was intently noting down every statement, interrupted the argument and spoke up in support of the lady1. The only interpretation that can be derived by this is that, lady1 was successful in convincing, if not all, but one participant. Her argument, therefore could not be dismissed. At this point, Man1 intervenes and tries to control the situation. He was still calm, composed and confident and held on to his composure in spite of the chaotic scenario and considered the perspectives of both Man2 and Lady1. He takes the midway path and succeeds in convincing both the participants. He states valid facts and speaks logica lly. When the situation appeared to be more or less controlled, it still wasn’t. Followed by this when lady2 makes a statement, she is opposed by Girl1 and Girl2. Both of them are students and they continue to argue with Lady2 in an aggressive tone. All this while, there was a small detail that I had forgot to mention. The participants were already sitting with people whom they already knew from before. Only the 5 participants who came alone for the discussion sat beside other fellow participants who they did not know. They were in groups throughout the discussion. People were talking among themselves, arguing, and there was complete chaos in the room at one point. People spoke out of chance, raised their voices in an attempt to put their views across. This is when Lady3 takes control of the situation. She makes her statement on another aspect and states her facts out loud thereby, shifting the focus of the argument to another concept related to the same topic. She was extrem ely persuasive and gave just reasons to the participants to agree with her. It was very interesting to observe how she was single handily successful in putting her ideas across. When lady3 entered the discussion, she exhibited all qualities of an influential person. She was confident, consistent, and had unbiased views. Minority influence refers to a form of social influence where the individual with contrastingly different beliefs in comparison to the other people, should have correct ideas and should resist social pressure and abuse. Her views were influential and convincing to such an extent that other people who were confused and were in two minds, along with the ones who had strong contrasting opinions conformed to Lady3. Conformity refers to any change in behaviour that is caused by another person or a group of people i.e. Lady3 has acted in a certain manner which had influenced the others to conform to her statement. But there was one such boy who took an active part in the d iscussion but, was hesitant to accept the ideas put forth by Lady3. In due time, he as well conformed to her. Conformity was studied by Solomon Asch, who conducted an experiment which concluded that it was primarily social pressure from perhaps a majority group that could affect a person to conform. In this case, it was primarily informational conformity as Lady3 stated accurate, and rational facts and figures to prove her idea and statement. It is basically the power of the situation that regulates and influences all human behaviour. It is the power of the situation that brought about instances of social influence and conformity. I observed that people belonging to the same age groups thought alike. Their opinions and views converged and they behaved in a similar manner. They had similar patterns of thinking and interpreting the situation. They reacted to certain situations in similar ways as well. This is possibly because all of them have grown up experiencing the same dynamic changes in the society. Also, this might reflect similar bringing up patterns. In course of the discussion I attained an in-depth insight on the different social behavioural patterns which man tends to exhibit depending on the prevailing scenario. Acknowledging the advantages of Naturalistic Observation, this research technique also has quite a number of disadvantages that we cannot ignore. In this kind of research technique, people may behave differently if they come to know that they are being watched. They become conscious and may try to behave in a certain way in order to conform to what they believe the observer expects to see. One major drawback of this research method is that different observers may draw different conclusions on the basis of their observation of the same witnessed behaviour, owing to their ability to make accurate assumptions which is again a rare scenario in most of the cases. However, observing different human behaviour patterns closely and then drawing meanings out of them poses as a challenge to all those researchers who carry out experiments on the basis of this research technique. The end. Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Name: Prakriti Dasgupta. Roll No.: H2013BAMA28. Subject: Social Psychology. BA 2nd Year, Semester: III. 1