Slide Presentation, Plastic Bags Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Slide Presentation, Plastic Bags - Assignment Example The second noteworthy facet was the insurmountable difference in the cost of recycling plastic bags and creating new bags. Jared Blumefeld noted that the cost of recycling is more that 125% the cost of creating new bags. Certainly, the government as well as private individuals cannot maintain the recycling drive for plastic bags at this ridiculous rate. If recycling then is not the answer what is? The third feature emphasizes a glimmer of hope for the stoppage and subsequent eradication of the dangers of the use of plastic. The creators of the presentation suggest that we can stop the use of plastic bags and replace the plastic with cloth. Besides the obvious advantage of being particularly recyclable one individual utilizing one cloth bag can replace the use of 288 plastic bags in one year. Therefore if every member of the population utilized cloth instead of plastic there would be a phenomenal removal of the dangers of plastic consumption in our lives. From the foregoing arguments one can conclude that the continued use of plastic bags are indeed detrimental to our lives as a consequence life as we know it today would be full of poison in the very near future unless we take the bull by the horn and make significant steps to removing the plastic from our daily lives. Thus, consistent with the findings as presented in the power point I recommend a complete 360 degrees turning from the use of plastic bags to a more positive alternative. Like the authors of this presentation I would like to reiterate the use of cloth instead of plastic and an outright ban of its use by the government. The author of this paper believes that in addition to the recommendations already made we as individuals and as a nation can plant trees to not only replenish the earth with positive substances but also to be used as material to create

Critically evaluate an assessment process Essay Example for Free

Critically evaluate an assessment process Essay The assessment system being evaluated is Competency Based Training (CBT). This is used by myself and my colleagues in the Automotive Trade section. This report will include the processes implemented by my section, and what issues are present that impact on how the assessment is conducted. A critique along with personal recommendations that may enhance the process will also be included. Assessment can be defined as the process of collecting evidence and making judgments on whether competency has been achieved, or whether specific skills and knowledge have been achieved that will lead to the attainment of competence. This appears to be a simple credo although all too often seems to fail either the candidate or the industry that represents them. To trace the events leading up to assessment, we must first look at the source. Industry identifies a need in the workforce and, in conjunction with Australian National Training Authority (ANTA), they develop a training package which may be described as the bare bones of what is required to be achieved. The automotive sector adheres to the training package AUR99. From this TAFE unpacks the training package in which staff can retrieve a translation in the form of units of competency contained in the syllabus for a particular module. This is available to staff on the Course Information Documents Online (CIDO) website. The units of competency can be further broken down into elements of competency. These elements can be translated into further detail through the performance criteria from which the learning outcomes are derived. An example of a module being taught in Automotive is called Electrical system minor repairs. This module addresses the unit of competency AUR18708A retrieved from the National Training Information Service (NTIS). This module is undertaken by stage one auto-electricians, light vehicle mechanics, and heavy vehicle mechanics. . The module purpose is to provide these trainees and apprentices the knowledge and skills to carry out minor repairs on automotive electrical circuits and systems. In order to assess a candidate effectively, there are basic principles of assessment that must be adhered to. This report will address and evaluate the above module, and define the principles as outlined below along with observed critiques. Validity is a process ensuring that the assessment task actually assesses the candidate in the way in which it was designed to. The module is valid in the assessment as it addresses the outcomes and the learners must successfully complete theory and practical tasks. There is a question of age in the resources used in the section, but as technology in this area has changed little, I believe industry validity is current. Having said this, the inclusion of practical assessments creates its own problems, availability of enough resources, OHS etc. Because of the financial constraints of having fifteen cars and equipment available at the one time, it is normal to break the class into three groups, with one group doing a theory test in the classroom, another doing one practical task in one part of the workshop and the last group doing another practical in another part of the workshop. Apart from the obvious OHS issues, there is also the question of how valid an assessment can be if the students doing the theory can copy from each other while it is impossible for the assessor to view the whole of the practical task o f all ten people in the workshop. Reliability. This principle refers to the consistency of an assessment outcome regardless of varying locations, time and assessors. Although the definition is idealistic, this principle seems to be lacking in many colleges. Due to my experience having taught this module in the light vehicle and auto-electrical sections, and having viewed the heavy vehicle assessments, it is notable that, taking away the human element, each section constructs its own test questions and practical resources without consulting each other, even though at my college these three sections are next door to each other. Therefore, the outcomes to these assessments are unreliable. Flexibility allows candidates to negotiate time and place with their assessor  and should make allowances for reasonable adjustment in the case of possible obstacles such as disability or literacy issues which may or may not inhibit the ability for a candidate to achieve a competency. Upon teaching this module among other modules, I have noticed that although The government prides itself on flexibility it does not necessarily occur to a great extent in the automotive trades. If a practical task is being assessed and a candidates level of literacy could possibly hinder their successful completion of this competency, the education department does have provision for translators or scribes, but to my knowledge, no student is able to negotiate time and place for their assessment to take place when more suitable for them. Fairness is a process to ensure that no one is disadvantaged during assessment. The candidates must be fully informed about assessment opportunities and be confident that there are no hidden agendas. The assessment must be accessible to all eligible students regardless of age, gender, disability, race, social background, language or geographic location. I believe no one is specifically disadvantaged in the above categories, except for location.. Although students are forewarned when an assessment is taking place, if a student that is traveling from far away experiences difficulties during this trip due to traffic etc, there is no flexibility with regards to starting later for instance. The next time they are able to sit this assessment may be up to six months away. Authenticity refers to the fact that the evidence used to make an assessment is the students own product or performance. This is possible in this module, and indeed most of the automotive modules, as there is rarely homework or projects for the students to complete outside college grounds, therefore students should be constantly observed by their teacher whether in a quiet room for a theory exam or workshop practical observation. In CBT, there are four types of assessments to be used. They are as follows; Diagnostic. This type of assessment is used to assist in identifying educational or training needs and determine if a candidate is ready to undertake the desired course. This would include a numeracy, literacy and language test, often called a screen test. This type of testing does occur at the beginning of the trade course certificate III, but not at the beginning of each module. If a student is identified as requiring extra assistance in these areas, we will provide tutorial support. Formative assessment is done during the learning process and provides feedback about the students progress towards to competency. Although I have seen no official policy in place for formative assessments, it is up to the teacher to provide this in good faith. I personally give students formative assessments to keep them steered in the right direction. Summative assessment is more formal and conducted at the end of a module to determine whether the candidate has achieved their outcomes to the competency successfully. This process is always undertaken in my section at work. Holistic assessment brings together the three domains of learning (cognitive, affect and psychomotor), with an attempt to include technical hands-on skills, problem solving and ethical attitudes in the assessment event. This is normally more complex and requires more than simply one assessment tool. It ideally requires various formats in the shape of written tests, oral questioning, and direct visual evidence by an assessor. I would once again question whether this occurs due to financial constraints as all of the students assessment tasks, both practical and theoretical are marked, but individual direct evidence is costly and time consuming. One fundamental flaw between the nationally endorsed training package from ANTA and the translated syllabus from CIDO is the issue of grading within a competency-based assessment, which I believe is a contentious issue. The words competency-based infer that the candidate should be judged as either competent or not yet competent. This does not leave room for the high achievers as these people are being encouraged, through lack of recognition, to only put in enough effort to be deemed competent. Most learners who have put a lot of effort into a piece of work often do not wish to simply see a satisfactory label on their results. The system is contradictory and unclear in this issue as it is modeled on CBT system but chooses to grade some modules, such as this one, and conduct other modules in an un-graded format as simply pass or fail. As most automotive trade tests are Category C, grade code 71, this allows the section to locally set and mark their own assessments. Grading is as follows; Distinction = 83 Credit = 70 Pass = 50 Fail 50 It interests me that 50% is the pass mark. What has determined this? Should it be 60% or 70%, or why not 40%. In most cases in my view, 50% seems way too low. Work Evidence Modules (WEMs) also play a part in the assessment as in the course of the students apprenticeship they must gather work evidence to be signed by their employer in order to validate that they have completed authentic practical tasks. I have seen flaws in this system as some employers are simply signing WEMs books enmasse without scrutiny as I have  seen various trade tasks signed off in some apprentices books where I am well aware that their particular workshop does not undertake certain facets of the trade, thus leaving this system open to corruption. Students workbooks are also used in module assessments, which may total up to 50%. There is an inconsistency marking workbooks with some teachers giving half marks, and others having a black and white rule meaning all or nothing. This means that dependant on whose class an apprentice ends up in can decide on the level of his/her grade. Recommendations In the case of assessment validity, I would recommend that two staff be made available to team teach during assessment events in order to view all facets of each task. In the case of reliability where the same subject is taught across different trade sections, there should be policy in place for the exact same test paper to be used by all as an example as mechanics arent given a less challenging electric theory test than an auto electrician as is currently taking place in the autonomous climate. I recommend that there should be a change in local policy that students should have a negotiated assessment time and place within reason, once again, with a second staff member being available to supervise. Fairness could be further enhanced for the students who have to travel, but this issue can be appeased if coupled with the flexibility recommendation. In the grading debate, we must decide on which side of the fence we stand, whether it be CBT un-graded, or graded. I prefer grading students on their merit, because I believe some are more competent than others. Although, if we made a stance on one side of the fence and stuck to it, I would accept either graded or un-graded, but not both throughout the course. WEMs books should be eliminated, as I believe they will be in the not to distant future. They dont work, and we used to produce fine trades people in the past without them. With the above review and personal recommendations made as is apparent, there are flaws to our assessment processes, but this is part and parcel of being an educator. So long as we are reflective and continue to consult both industry and practitioners we will further fine tune our system in order to better serve future students which in this day and age is the customer. References Australian National Training Authority. (n.d.). Retrieved Aug 14, 2004, from http://www.anta.gov.au/ Certificate IV in assessment and workplace training. (2003). NSW., Australia: TAFE. CIDO. (n.d.). Retrieved Aug 14, 2004, from https://www.det.nsw.edu.au/cgi-forte/fortecgi.exe?servicename=CDOTemplateName=cdo_logon.html Everyones guide to assessment. (2004). (2nd ed.). Darlinghurst, NSW., Australia: TAFE and NSW DET. National Training Information Service. (n.d.). Retrieved Aug 14, 2004, from http://www.ntis.gov.au/ NCVER. (2002). Research at a Glance. Competency Based Training in Australia, pp. 159-166.

Marketing Plan Oberoi Hotels In Mumbai

Marketing Plan Oberoi Hotels In Mumbai A luxury 5-star business hotel, The Oberoi, New Delhi provides over 250 rooms and suites. It features the best of restaurants, a well-equipped business center and a rejuvenating spa experience. In addition the dedicated service makes the hotel popular with business and leisure travelers. Bearing a blend of traditional and colonial style, the rooms are done up with traditional Indian art and handicrafts and also appointments from Europe. The hotel has taken care to ensure there is no compromise on luxury, so a perfect balance of modern luxury and traditional charm has been achieved. Regally appointed baths and specially prepared toiletries add well to the luxuries offered. Guests can choose rooms with different views, the most popular being pool-view or golf course-view rooms. Amongst the most luxurious, the Kohinoor suite is the most luxurious. The Oberoi offers perfect rejuvenating experiences for the guests. A 9000 square area of the hotel dedicates itself to make you feel relaxed and get rejuvenated. The Oberoi Spa features a therapy suite, an Ayurveda therapy room and a hydrotherapy room for Vichy shower. For those who love to take laps, the hotel has temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool which allows you to swim in all seasons. Designed to suit the needs of the class business travelers, the hotel is well-appointed with all requirements for the same. It offers to guests conference rooms with a capacity to accommodate around 300 people, business centers with all modern facilities and other business facilities. Company Overview The Oberoi, Mumbai Located in the citys prime business and shopping district of Nariman Point, The Oberoi, Mumbai has been completely redesigned to be the ultimate destination for contemporary style and luxury in the city. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the hotel welcomes you with space and serenity. Luxuriously appointed guestrooms have been meticulously planned with a host of innovative features using the latest technology. The Oberoi, Mumbai is located on Marine Drive, the famed boulevard along the coast in South Mumbai. An hours drive from the airport and only minutes away from the business, financial and entertainment districts, the hotel is also well located to visit the citys tourist attractions. The hotel offers a rich variety of dining experiences ranging from an all day dining restaurant serving global cuisine, to an Italian Restaurant and a signature Indian restaurant under the direction of a Michelin starred chef. An ideal location for business meetings and conferences in Mumbai, venues range from private meeting rooms at the 24-hours Business Centre to the conference rooms on the top floor of the hotel offering sweeping views of the Arabian Sea. Recreational facilities include an outdoor heated swimming pool, a fitness centre and a full service Oberoi Spa. The Spa and the Fitness Centre are open 24 hours. Complemented by Oberoi Hotels legendary service delivered by caring staff, The Oberoi, Mumbai is the ideal hotel for discerning business and leisure travellers. http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Oberoi-Hotel,-New-DelhiBlending-Business-With-Pleasureid=2320861 Our brands: Business Hotels The Oberoi, Calcutta The Oberoi, Mumbai The Oberoi, New Delhi Leisure Hotels: The Oberoi sahl Hasheesh The Oberoi Rajvillas The Oberoi Madina Wildflower Hall, Simla Current Situation Macro Environment (PESTEL Analysis) Economical The economy of UK has been getting back to the normal position as there are significant amount of increase in the tourists visiting the major cities of London as well the rest of the United Kingdom and so with the migrants from different parts of the world for jobs which would thus lead to a overall increase in the economy of the UK. Initially there need to be a high investment in purchase of building up of the vessel which would be covered under the financial capabilities of the Intercontinental group of hotels as there has been a gradual stability and increase in the economy of the Intercontinental Group of Hotels InterContinental Hotels was the main talking point yesterday as London started the new year with a bounce. InterContinental climbed 6.3 per cent to 597Â ½p after a unit of Hong Leong, the Asian conglomerate that owns Thistle Hotels, declared a 3 per cent stake. As it has been seen that the due to the economy crisis of recession there were many job losses which has left out the skilled workers out and away from their jobs but as now clearing of the overall debts of all the world economy there has been a significant growth in the economic factors as well many job openings And as seen now there is an substantial increase in Tourism sector which would be quiet related to concept of hospitality on board of Intercontinental Blue Retreat and thus would be easier to find experienced labour http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/569a38fa-d937-11dd-ab5f-000077b07658.html Political In Britain there is new Liberal Democrats Government which will now bring on new rules and regulations on the have a change in taxation policy in correspondence to the present taxation policy on Britain The main focus of the government is to reduce the carbon credits by reducing the carbon emissions and such elements leading towards global warming. This means there will be an increase in the fuel costs by imposing taxes over it which will directly effect on the driving of the motor vessel of Intercontinental Blue Retreat which may have a long journeys of a week from Britain to Caribbean, Mexico, Bali, Dubai at initial and thus expanding with the themed holiday retreats so the taxation rates are the major concern in considerations with the fuel as well as the service taxation rates which are to be revised Socio Cultural Environment Since the time trend of cruise travel came into existence the cruise liners have been a status symbol for a frequent leisure traveller who had the power to spend high amount for his travel. It was only the upper class of the society who could have afforded to travel with leisure on board but since the concept of travel with leisure had been came into existence promoting varied tourist countries and attractions it has been quiet affordable for the working class and became a means of themed travels just instead of travel with leisure The average age of tourists travelling varies now from the young age group to the old age group varying from 15 55 for the purpose of visiting places over the world for holiday purpose Technological Factors The advancements in the cruise liners for facilitating the tourist with all the facilities throughout the journey. The major concerns in the cruise liners is the technologies to be used for waste management and water preservation and storage as well the oil or waste spills in the sea which are to be looked as major concerns.Some of the cruise liners are already implementing Water saving technologies are found throughout cruise ships, such as vacuumed toilets and low-flow faucet aerators on water outlets. In minimising emissions, is also looking at ways to reduce the amount of fuel used. As well as designing more fuel-efficient itineraries, the cruise line is pilot-testing a computer system that will make vessels more aerodynamic and lessen fuel consumption and have to further reduce sulphur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions and particulate matter over the next decade in accordance with MARPOL Annex VI, revised in 2008, which relates to air pollution. Some cruise lines are already implementing scrubber technology on board their ships, a system in which the natural chemistry of seawater is used to scrub the sulphur out of a ships exhaust gases. These technologies are to be implemented and for which the budgeting will the looked over and thus new technologies will be adopted Environmental The cruise ships emit tons of sulphur emissions into the sea on a yearly average. The use of low sulphur-producing fuel which is the most popular means of reducing sulphur emissions in the cruise industry, also comes with some environmental consequences. The process of distilling crude oil to make the fuel leaves refineries with a type of waste fuel that is unusable and thus it leaves back a considerable amount of solid waste. Research is been carried out for viability of solar and wind turbine technology for ships and is set to release a sustainability report soon detailing more solutions for the future which will make the cruise liners eco friendly without disturbing the ecological balance and harming the environment. Legal The introduction of a new cruise liners should consider the various legal terms to be followed up which are imposed and regulated by the Cruise liner International Association (CLIA) along with the legal regulating bodies of the nations the laws and acts such as Design and Construction standards Cruise Vessel Safety and Security Act Sea Environmental law (solid waste/ Toxic / Ballast water / Air Pollution) Sexual assault on Cruise Act Log Book and Crime Reporting Crime Scene Preservation These all rules, regulations and acts are to be considered from formulation a vessel to the onboard safety and security of the consumer http://www.cruiselawnews.com/ Market Analysis According to the projected bar graph there seems to be a substantial increase in the cruise travellers within the coming two years and this would be a very good thing for the Intercontinental Blue Retreat The Cruising has become a major part of the tourism industry as well as for onboard hospitality accounting for with over 18 million passengers carried worldwide in 2010. The worlds largest cruise liner is Royal Caribbean which would be the major competitor for the Intercontinental Group. The industrys rapid growth has seen nine or more newly built ships catering to a North American clientele added every year since 2001, as well as others servicing European clientele. Smaller markets, such as the Asia-Pacific region, are generally serviced by older ships. These are displaced by new ships in the high growth areas. so the Intercontinental with its new vessel would initially grab on the European market and then with the themed holidays and thus moving towards the far east http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cruise_ship Using Micheal Porters five force analysis model it will help us to classify the major five forces for the Intercontinental Blue Retreat Competitive Rivalry There is an existing high density of cruise liners along with a increase in 32 new vessels in the coming three years which will lead to increase in vessels and so creating a port reserving problems along with the shortage of ports for existing cruise vessels There has been a competitive rivalry between the major cruise liners in the past few decades in accordance with the on board services they offer to attract the customers along with the varied experiences for the cruisers to remember with Threat of New Entrants Though there are 11 new cruise vessels to be launched in 2011 there is a level of threat of entrants in luxury cruise market .The easiest way to enter the cruise industry appears to be via mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers. There are essentially three cruise market segments: contemporary, premium, and luxury. Along with these types of cruises comes varying levels of service and expertise. The high cost of training and maintaining exceptional employees for their shops, casinos, entertainment, hotel staff, world class chefs, and of course the maritime staff requires a parent company with vast financial resource. Therefore the threat of new entrants is substantial. As the similar marketing strategies can be applied over but the other large group of hotels Threat of Substitutes The cruise industry holds a unique position in that the threat of a substitution by another vacation activity by the current consumer market seems likely to be high with the pioneering cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival in the cruise tourism. Family cruises are also growing in popularity. a cruise vacation is generally cheaper than a traditional vacation package. Many lines offer package airfare and cruise rates to their customers. An increasing number of lines are expanding their ports of call and destinations to please the demands of todays diverse cruise market. According to a survey 25 ships from major cruise lines from three more than last year is now carrying about 10% more passengers. All this means more choices for travellers. And thus increase in competition with the existing pioneering cruise companies and increasing a threat of substitution with Intercontinental Blue retreat Bargain Power of Suppliers A rise in fuel prices has been quite costly for the cruise industry, who are not only directly affected by fuel cost for running their own ships, but must raise ticket prices to cover the increase cost of flying due to high fuel prices and a hike in airfares. Quality, dependability on suppliers are vital in order to ensure repeat cruisers. If the food was good on the first cruise, consumers expect it to be up to par each time they cruise. This goes for advertising too. Carnival was the first cruise line to use television ads to promote itself. Travel services also play an important role in promoting and fulfilling cruise reservations. the bargain power of the suppliers in regards to fuel , food , supplies is likely to be high which needs an proper evaluation in accordance with the service contract for constant supply of the resources. Bargaining Power of Customers Cruise travellers have many different lines to choose from, each offering a slightly different variety of service on cruising. Most cruise lines target middle class travellers with the grand ocean liner experience. The first time travellers or cruisers are offered along in by moderately priced air and cruise package rates. Often one can buy a cruise vacation anywhere form $125-$250 per person, per night. Most hotel stays in major cities are more expensive per night, not including transportation as well as food. Along with low priced package rates, consumers are also demanding a unique vacation experience which would create a difference in their normal vacations . Now cruises appeal to a younger, hipper audience, and its easy to see why. Modern cruise ships are being more like floating resorts, offering everything from Casinos, spas and gyms to in-line skating and Rock-climbing walls. Cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the travel Ships also stop at more ports, with over 1,800 destinations worldwide to choose with. So does the bargain power of cruisers increase along with having wide options of cruise liners to choose from. Customer Analysis (current and targeted) There has been a rapid growth in number of UK cruise passengers travelling by cruise liners which have effectively been doubled in just eight years. The cruise report makes the prediction based on estimates by the UK Passenger Shipping Association that 1.35 million cruises were booked by UK residents last year, with a rise of 15% to 1.55 million predicted for this year. Now cruises are attracting to a younger, hipper audience, Modern cruise ships are being more like floating resorts, offering everything from Casinos, spas and gyms to in-line skating and Rock-climbing walls. Cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the travel Ships also stop at more ports, with over 1,800 destinations which would certainly lead to increase in the family travellers and young travellers which would create a trend for them to travel in luxury The base target of the Intercontinental group would be to create a difference on their cruise liners along with the generation trends. initially it will be launched starting the voyage from UK to Mexico, Caribbean Islands, and covering 1 voyage to Bali and Asian country parts. the motive would be to create a difference in hospitality as intercontinental is following the concept of making customer happy and to create great hotels guest love http://www.travelweekly.co.uk/Articles/2008/02/13/26646/uk-cruise-market-to-hit-two-million-passengers-by-2012.html Internal Environment The potentials of Intercontinental Blue Retreat Strengths: Good financial stability of the brand Customer loyalty Large database of Intercontinental customers Pioneers in Hospitality since long time Luxury Brand image along with all 9 brands of intercontinental group Assured clientele Weaknesses: Higher fixed cost Onboard service is labour intensive Seasonality of ship usage Weak environmental policies Long lead time for ship delivery before introduction in the market Competitive industry with other pioneering cruise liners High fuel and maintenance cost Opportunities: Expected 11 more ships in next four years Only 8 % have taken over in the tourism sector by cruise lines Ageing population wants relaxing vacations Multilingual staff for language efficiency which can be picked over within from the properties over the world ships for mergers or acquisitions from existing vessels due to brand power Threats: Maturing industry Overcapacity of vessels in the sea Rate of growth might slow down Expected growth of 6.3 % in coming year Tight regulations in voyage and cruise laws Other cruise companies to increase their vessels in next years by acquisitions Competitive advantage The aim is to build a sustainable competitive advantage could be achieved by Intercontinental Blue Retreat through the Intercontinental Hotels resorts groups economy and their pioneering performance in past few decades acquiring over 6 major brands within Brittan and world over . Possessing extensive knowledge of the UK market and existing extensive research into consumer behaviour they can offer a holistic service supported by the groups expertise in customer service. Intercontinental already has a guest loyalty card of which the regular guests or customers can avail of the discounted rates on the voyages or themed holidays with family and friends also can avail business facilitation with intercontinental business jets for conferencing. Intercontinental blue retreat would formulate a cruise theme trip along with the hotel stays at intercontinental resorts at varied location along with hampered gift packages for the loyal customers or frequent customers and offering business coaches for business class within the cruise and pioneering the cruise liners Mission Vision and core values of INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL GROUP Mission: To create great hotels guests love. Vision: To build the hotel industrys strongest operating system focused on the biggest markets and segments where scale really counts. Core Values: Do the right thing Show we care Aim higher Celebrate difference Work better together Mission Vision and Core values of INTERCONTINENTAL BLUE RETREAT Mission: To create best cruise guest would love. Vision: to build up the pioneering voyages with a great customer satisfaction maintaining the higher scales in the cruise tourism sector Core Values: Do the best for the guest Show the care through better service on board Be pioneers Work unitedly Create valuable difference Introduction of INTERCONTINENTAL BLUE RETREAT The cruise vessel of Intercontinental would be introduced in summer 2010 from south Hampton port of Great Britain and the first voyage would be with grand opening to Caribbean island. The vessel would be initially advertised with the in-house marketing from all the brands of intercontinental group and along with a in-house reservation desk in the lobby of every hotel as travel desks at the lobby which would help make aware the brand loyal guests with the pre launching of luxury cruise The Marketing Strategy (Marketing Mix) Product: The product being a service product it has to be generally promoted based on the brand image of the hotel so as to facilitate loyal customers with the efficient and luxurious on board service at the intercontinental Blue retreat Price: The price of the voyage would be as along with the luxury with an offered discounted rate to the loyalty card members of intercontinental group and along with a discounted rate for the first 200 reservation special family and themed packages with a special rated with over the chosen destination in accordance to promote the voyages Place: The cruise vessel of Intercontinental would be introduced in summer 2010 from south Hampton port of Great Britain and the first voyage would be with grand opening to Caribbean island. The vessel would be initially advertised with the in-house marketing from all the brands of intercontinental group and along with a in-house reservation desk in the lobby of every hotel Promotion: The promotions are to carried out at initially by in house promotions by in room pamphlets, advertisements on in room televisions and to the business class by a presentation of advertisement of launching and on a large scale by following Companys own Website Billboards Printed advertisements Direct Mail to business class Loyalty members offers Online media Sales promotions Sponsorship Type of Promotion Method Objective Companys own website Efficient, branded website with online booking facilities. And initial advertised page Provide info Enable online bookings Billboards .billboards at the major transport lines and tourist places along with the airport and stations Create awareness and promote the luxury voyage facilitated for the consumers Printed Advertisements Poster advertisements Ads in publications such as the travel and tourism magazine remind and retain customers about the brands new launch Direct Mail Letters, Pamphlets. Reaching business class segment efficiently Online Media Emails Banners Sponsored links marketing Social media websites comparison websitessites. Utilise the internet to reach as many targeted customers, efficiently as possible, to guide them directly to the online booking system and retain data of customers to avail them with promotions. Sales Promotions In-house promotional stands and desk prior the launch Inform about the luxurious service of the cruise Loyalty members offer Offer with special packages to loyalty card members To increase brand loyalty of customer Sponsor high end events Sponsor high end events with a handful budget. To get relation with the people in events and thus make brand promotions Marketing Strategy: Differentiation Strategy: Intercontinental Blue Retreat should make their cruises more unique and luxurious then other cruise lines making differentiation with the packages or the services provided on board by the pioneering brand in hospitality. Sample of Advertising Critical Reflection I am a graduate in hospitality and tourism management with a relevant experience of one year working with a 5 star property. I have learned marketing in my bachelors but havent related or do not have much relevant experience with the same. It had always seemed interesting subject according to me. Coming from a hospitality background, learning the marketing concepts in depth and relating them with the real world scenario has been a truly worth experience. I was also able to explore the creative side of me while designing of the advertisement which made me think of the several factors which should actually be taken into consideration. My expectation at the beginning of the module was to learn the basic concepts of marketing which are to be used on regular basis on and throughout marketing in any industry. But I have not only learned the core marketing theories but able to apply the theoretical concepts to practical. I feel confident now as i can take any product and formulate a descent marketing strategy. Following a video advert for the designed product line is a concept of learning the advertisement trends of marketing the new product which is quiet interesting. The assignments provided me a tremendous opportunity to apply the gained theoretical knowledge and bring into practice. I have always considered PESTEL analysis and marketing mix as the main tool to analyse a marketing strategy for any product. These both theories provide a concrete base for marketing any product. while designing the product line of my product it became quiet clear and concise to me how anyone can relate effectively use the 4 Ps of marketing mix considering not only the product and place as in usual rather then also looked over the price and promotion of the product which are of major considerations for any product. My concept of promotion of a product was only as advertisement but as i progressed through the coursework i found out that advertisement is just a basic tool of promotion. Whereas promotions can be done in varied different ways to promote the product in market. One of my biggest misconceptions about product placement was cleared in this assignment. I always used to consider the placement of product about an large scale in a hypermarket .as going through the product line of my new product of an chain of hotels to cruise liners was a huge and massive product for which the location on the right place at right time maters a lot as the cruise business is usually termed as seasonal PESTEL analysis helped me to look overall factors which would effect the new product in the existing competitive market. at initial the factors like political, social and environmental factors where not been of much importance in accordance to me but while going through the assignment i realised that these factors to play a major concern in case of INTERCONTINENTAL group of hotels launching a cruise liner. The environmental factors are of major consideration with the legal environmental laws for the cruise liners as to regulations of carbon emission and oil spillages of cruises are considered with different laws which are followed up by the companies Market analysis is an another vital tool to recognise and evaluate the market segmentation of an particular product in the market. as considering the marketing game which initially i found to be worthless. But it proved to be a very effective tool for evaluating the strategies to be applied in accordance to market situations. i always had it in my mind as a key assignment where i have learned to evaluate the market in accordance with the situation of the market and the requirements on the product in the sector. it also helped me to consider major budgeting factor as we in a group where provided with a fix budget. During designing of the product, I had to keep in the mind the existing product portfolio, and the brand image of the company. This was challenging as they act as few factors within which I had the design the product. Placing myself in the shoes of a marketing head, I had to keep in mind the overall marketing strategy of the company, where my product fits in to the plan and how it delivers value to the customers. How would my product differentiated from the other competitors in the market The consumer analysis in the coursework was one of key learning aspects to consider the consumer behaviour along with the consumer buying habits depending upon the several factors such as age, sex, culture, habits, psychology, needs and wants of a customer which helps in formulating a unique products which can be differentiated from the others thus creating a competitive advantage. The purchasing power of customers vary which makes it more difficult for pricing a product accordingly and also that means to me as a marketing person is that I need to keep in mind these various aspects while designing the marketing campaign. Therefore I felt, the customer profiling exercise is a great tool to understand and identify the target segment of the customers. This exercise has enabled and enhanced my understanding of marketing as a tool to figure out the right target segment for the right set of customers and the right campaign that will help promote/sell the product. It was great to know that the intercontinental group of hotels maintain a portfolio of regular and business class consumer as well the loyalty card members. They avail and provide their consumers with a global facilitation with the loyalty card with the all existing 7 brands over round the world. The porters five force analysis which considers the differential factors irrespective to any other theories has helped me through the assignment to consider the situational analysis of the product in the concurrent market as the factors considered such as competitive rivalry, threat of entrants, threat of substitutes are major concerns for the market situation analysis while the bargain power of consumers and suppliers where of not much importance to me unless i evaluated the assignment and came through the situations where such analysis are the major issued as for INTERCONTINENTAL cruise liners had to enter into new market there the supplies such as fuel, food and water suppliers are the major onboard requirements to be considered and suppliers bargain power has helped me to look-over evaluation of any supplier SWOT analysis was useful in clearly highlighting the strengths I can use to promote and position the product, looking to weaknesses how i can improve the defects on the company, opportunities and threats will help me to look on to futuristic considerations. The best thing about the SWOT analysis was that during the process of conducting SWOT for the pioneering brand of Intercontinental Hotels and resorts, I realised that it is a very effective tool to understand a companys position in the overall market. Realizing the benefits of a SWOT analysis I decided to conduct a SWOT analysis on myself. This was even more insightful to me. It clearly helped me understand how I can improve myself professionally and personally. Considering my strengths weaknesses and improve myself After going through the assignment it reminds me of the question which was once asked to us as in a practice session to debate on with Marketing is an art or a science? This now truly makes me feel that it cant be any single piece of the duo pair because the science of the theory is implemented and the form of marketing art helps to implement the science into practical. So it cannot be just the one part of instead both terms compliment each other. During the exercise I felt I have undergone a complete transformation in terms of

Essay --

Designing Fear: A Brief History of Hate Crimes at Elmhurst College Elmhurst College is a small, private, four-year college. Though affiliated with the United Church of Christ, the college seeks to educate its students for life in the global society. As such, Elmhurst College welcomes students of many faiths. At the heart of the college’s spiritual life is the college chaplain’s office, which offers worship programs, community service opportunities, and spiritual guidance for students from all faith traditions. To ensure that the college can represent, embrace, and engage all of the religious communities on campus, the chaplain’s office employs nineteen co-chaplains and interfaith advisors. Leading the charge as the campus’s primary chaplain is the Rev. H. Scott Matheney. In the fall of 2008, Rev. H. Scott Matheney had been the chaplain of Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois for 11 years. A graduate of Whitworth College and Princeton Theological Seminary, Matheney arrived at the Elmhurst College with having already served for many years as the Presbyterian and United Church of Christ Chaplain at Columbia University and New York City. In his first decade at the school, Matheney had played a key role in the establishment of the NAACP Chapter on campus, spearheaded the annual Holocaust Education Project and Habitat for Humanity projects, instituted the Religious Lecture Series to explore different faith traditions, and provided significant outreach to all religious groups on campus—particularly the Muslim community. Matheney was proud of the progress made on key religious issues on campus, and felt that the campus was successfully fostering an environment that allowed individual members of the community to learn from each other... ..., curtains, and other items that make the space friendly and welcoming to all. â€Å"If there’s any good that has come from things like this—Safia, the things they see at the Interfaith Youth Core, even September 11, I think it’s two-fold,† Matheney says. â€Å"First, there’s been a dramatic movement of interfaith agendas and issues. And second, there’s a recognition that the Muslim community has to step into the public square and not be a quiet minority on our Christian campus—or in our Christian nation—anymore. They’ve had to become able to become a force that defends, defines, and differs themselves as they engage society. There has been a noticeable uptake in their engagement here since Safia left, even if things did slow down for a while. They, and we, are coming to terms with what it means to become a part of U.S. society. And we’re learning from each other every day.†

Nazi Preparation for War Essay

The Nazis came to power in 1933. They began introducing a set of ideas into German society. These ideas were based on the Nazi ideology, outlined by Hitler’s book â€Å"Mein Kampf†. This essay will examine how the Nazis’ attempted to ‘educate’ German society to integrate their ideological beliefs, and whether these were all designed as a preparation for war. There were a number of different aims for the youth in Nazi Germany and therefore their education needed to be suitable. Education methods created a loyal following for Hitler and the Nazis. The Nazis were aware that education to the German youth would create loyal Nazis by the time they reached adulthood. Their overall aim was to create a generation of racially pure Germans who were ready to do what Hitler asked of them and most importantly; serve their country. Therefore it was necessary to mould young boys into being prepared for war. Education is supposed to open closed minds to liberate the minds of the youth and of the ignorant. It aims make a person to be an independent thinker. However in Germany under the Nazis the purpose for education was to close the minds. Leading Nazis stated that â€Å"the whole purpose of education is to create Nazis†. Education played a very important part in Nazi Germany in creating a loyal population of youth. The Nazis were aware that education would create loyal youth by the time they were adults. The pupils were made to believe in Hitler, and the youth movement made sure that they would not even think of opposing him. Education meant indoctrination. Hitler used the schools to reinforce Nazi ideas. The school curriculum was changed, to serve the Nazi purpose. Physical education, Biology, German and History were given special emphasis. Science had a military slant to it and focussed on chemical warfare and explosives. Maths dealt with social issues and artillery calculations. History was changed in classes to uphold the glory of Germany, the Treaty of Versailles was described as the work of jealous nations, and hyperinflation in 1923 was said to be the work of Jewish saboteurs. Biology became a study of the different races. It aimed to ‘prove’ that the Nazi belief in Aryan racial superiority was correct. All teachers had to be accessed by local Nazi officials. Any teacher considered disloyal was sacked. Nazi curriculum classes were held during school holidays and most teachers attended. In 1933 the NSLB (National Socialist Teachers League) had 6,000 members, by 1937 it had 320,000 members. This meant that about 97% of all teachers had joined the NSLB. Teachers taught their pupils that Jews, and socialists were the cause of all Germany’s problems. This is evident in exam questions that showed the government’s anti-Semitic views, â€Å"A bomber aircraft on take-off carries 12 dozen bombs, each weighing 10 kilos. The aircraft takes off for Warsaw the international centre for Jewry. It bombs the town. On take-off with all bombs on board and a fuel tank containing 100 kilos of fuel, the aircraft weighed about 8 tons. When it returns from the crusade, there are still 230 kilos left. What is the weight of the aircraft when empty ? †. Girls were indoctrinated into following the 3Ks: Kinder (Children), Kiche (Kitchen) and Kirche (Church). Girls had to learn first aid and help on the land. But with the Nazis concerned about the falling birth rate and scared Germany would become a second class power, girls’ main aim was to reproduce. Hitler wanted a ‘master’ race, so he encouraged women to produce Aryan babies. Organisations that promoted family planning were banned and doctors who carried out abortions on Aryan women were given a two year jail sentence. There were many youth organisations for girls to join, all controlled by the Fuhrer. Girls could join in the ‘Jung Madel’ (young girls) between the age of ten and fourteen. The ‘Bund Deutscher Madel’ (the league of German maidens) for fourteen to eighteen year olds. And the ‘Glaube und Conceit’ (faith and beauty school) for eighteen to twenty-one year olds. The League of German Girls offered a chance for them to get out of the house and do sport, singing, hiking camping, etc. â€Å"In the League of German Girls could escape from the ties of domesticity and from the female role-model of child care and devotion to family† As with the girls, youth organisations were set up for boys. There was the ‘Pimpfen’ (little fellows) for six to ten year olds, ten to fourteen year olds had to pass an exam to join the ‘Deutches Jungvolk’ and ‘Hitlerjugend’ for fourteen to eighteen year olds. After this the young adults would join either the ‘Reich Labour service’ or the ‘Wehrmacht’. There was also a patrol service who would check that all the members of the Hitler Youth were looking smart and that they were carrying a clean handkerchief and comb. Young boys were taught to concentrated on boxing, shooting, marching, athletics and military exercises. Hitler had stated that he wanted boys who could suffer pain â€Å"a young German must be †¦ as tough as leather, and as hard as Krupp’s steel†. Team games were also encouraged because it gave boys a sense of unity. Most boys were made to take proficiency tests, these tests involved marches. On average the boys had to march 15 miles a day. These journeys were aimed at teaching young boys the history of their ancestors. Both boys and girls would go to summer camp. Summer camps promoted unify and the idea of working in a team. It is obvious that education policies and the introduction of the Hitler Youth was aimed at preparing the youth of Germany for war. Hitler wanted a thousand year Reich, and wanted the German youth to understand the imperative of war. Baulder von Schirach was appointed Youth Leader of the German Reich in June 1933 and it was his objective to make the Hitler Youth the leading German youth organisation. When Schirach took over leadership in 1933 the Hitler Youth had 55,000 members. Various methods were used to persuade boys to join the Hitler Youth. Teachers influenced youngsters to join, it became difficult for those outside the Hitler Youth to get jobs and apprenticeships were granted to members. Although membership rose significantly, in March 1939 it became compulsory to join the Hitler Youth and it claimed 7. million members, â€Å"What quickly became the largest youth organisation in the world subscribed to the philosophy of youth leading youth†. The first purpose of the Hitler Youth was to prepare and train young boys to become soldiers of the third Reich, that the nazis would have full control off. Hitler had always held the same three main aims: to reverse the Treaty of Versailles, to unite all the German-speaking people and to grant the nation more ‘living space’ (lebensraum). Hitler knew he not achieve these aims alone, and therefore he needed a strong, dependable, loyal army. The young boys of Germany were going to be this army, and the young girls of Germany were going to give birth to his new soldiers. He took children early, and put a lot of effort into making the Hitler Youth an organisation with military instincts. To achieve the great army Hitler craved the nazis had to incorporate military training with psychological preparation. An important part of this aim was the Hitler Youth’s ‘military athletics’ (wehrsport). This included war activities, which taught the youth psychical strength and military tactics that soldiers would need in war. For example grenade throwing, needed on a battlefield, trench digging gave boys strength and endurance, map reading taught intelligence and teamwork. Also activities like wrestling matches between boys were arranged to prove how manly they were, â€Å"It was the National Socialist youth leaders method that everything took the form of competitions†. The Hitler Youth boys were taught to pick on the weaker members within each group. If a boy lost a wrestling match or failed in a task, they were picked on. Severe cross country hikes and marches left boys in hospital. This shows how far the Nazis would go in search of their beliefs; to create a perfect, Aryan army. Boys also had to learn Nazi dogma, (nazi beliefs) and once they passed the necessary tests they were given a special dagger marked â€Å"Blood and Honour† which was more propaganda for the boys to train hard. They all wanted to achieve this special dagger, it gave the boys an aim, and a feeling of achievement when they fulfilled their challenge. For those who failed, they suffered great humiliation. The second purpose of the Hitler Youth movement was to prepare young men psychologically for war, through a flooding of Nazi ideology. Training the boys, making them strong, and preparing their bodies for fighting, would not be sufficient enough, Hitler had to prepare the youth’s minds too. Forcing Nazi ideals on children mainly depended on teachers, and Hitler Youth Movement (HYM) group leaders delivering them. Hitler knew that if boys were going to die for him he would have to give them a reason to. This was also the case with girls, if they were going to give up their jobs, and lives, to give birth to large numbers of ‘pure’ German babies they had to have a reason to. He wanted to indoctrinate young people so that they accepted Nazi ideas, beliefs, and values to become ideal nazis; the building blocks for the people’s community. Hitler seized advantage of the young and innocent minds plaguing them with Nazi ideology. The HYM meetings were shaped to allow for this, they gave lectures and speeches on the superiority of the Aryan race and the evil of the communists and the Jewish. Like the HYM the school curriculum was designed to reinforce the Nazi values. The curriculum was ripped apart as subjects tried to prove that the nazis were superior. â€Å"Racial instruction† started at the age of 6. Nazi leaders had children under their full control at all times, as Hitler Youth membership became compulsory. Propaganda techniques including movies, radio, posters and magazines, aswell as the education system and Hitler Youth meetings all influenced the opinions of the youth. The third purpose of the Hitler Youth was teach boys to become future leaders of the Nazi society. Hitler wanted his Reich to prosper for a thousand years, and he wanted superiority over other nations. He wanted Germany to be a super-power. To do this he needed the best Generals, Officers, Senior Officers, etc. nd the Hitler movement was structured to accomplish his aim. Those boys who were considered physically fitter and stronger than the rest went to Adolf Hitler Schools. Here, they were taught to become the future leaders of Germany. The very best pupils went to Order Castles. Here pupils were trained to the limits of physical endurance. Students endured 6 years of tough training and those who graduated at 18 from Order Castles would be granted a high position in the army or the SS (Hitler’s personal army). The fourth purpose of the Hitler Youth movement was to ensure loyalty to the fuehrer himself. Hitler knew that he had ensure that children were not open to any ideas, and were just fed nazi propaganda. He needed them under his full control, and had many different ways of achieving this. Nazis censored cinema and radio in a bid to glorify Hitler. As children walked to school Hitler’s speech’s would be on the radio, when they went to films with their friends, commercials glorifying Hitler would appear. Young minds were banned from listening to American radio stations, for fear that non-nazi influences would pollute their minds and bring them the truth. They were made to believe that the Nazi way, was the only way. When trying to capture these young minds, hearts, and souls, the Nazis offered many incentives. The nazis gave a purpose to children and a sense of belonging and importance. The Nazis controlled young rebelliousness into aggressive military activities. They wanted to make sure that the youth’s had no reason to object, and rebel, and incentives such as uniforms, knives, drums, etc. kept them happy. Although sometimes severe, beatings and canings to rebels occurred. These were used as examples to stop others from attempting to rebel. This is evident when looking at the edelweiss pirates. They opposed the Nazis by beating up Hitler Youth members, and writing anti-nazi slogans on the walls. 283 gang members were arrested, resulting in 124 pirates being executed. â€Å"The Gestapo and Hitler Youth brought to bear an armoury of repressive measures that ranged from individual warnings, temporary detention†¦to criminal trial or death† . The fifth purpose of the Hitler Youth involved the fact that the Nazis wanted to Restructure German society, and the selection process. Hitler needed a strong, and pure government, one that would not fail as the Weimar republic did. He abandoned the democratic selection process, as he knew that this may result in being a risk to his Reich. To achieve his aims, the youth movement was presented models and ideals of what they should be like when they grew older. For example, propaganda posters showing ‘ideal families’ were used, girls were taught to wear simple clothes, tie their hair in a bun, and discouraged from work. Whereas boys were encouraged to be strong and militant. Those boys who achieved the ideal nazi characteristics, like strong physical ability were rewarded with a position high in the system. Girls that bared children were also rewarded on a special day that was Hitler’s Mothers birthday. Hitler also knew that for children to become good leaders, they had to take responsibility and urged them to inform teachers if they heard anyone denouncing Nazi beliefs, or not adhering to Nazi ideals, â€Å"Denunciations of parents by children was encouraged, not least by school teachers who set essays entitled- what does your family talk about at home? †. The Hitler youth patrols co-operated with the Gestapo and were trained in policing, traffic control, and fire fighting. This motive was effective, and helped Hitler create a whole new generation who helped in sustaining fear in the opposition by acting as informants, in Hitler’s totalitarian terror-state . It is evident that the Hitler Youth movement was carefully structured and shaped to allow for its many different aims. However it is obviously that the prospect of war was a key theme throughout all the possible purposes for the Hitler Youth, â€Å"the desired educational goal of the technically skilled yet soldierly warrior†. Young children had Nazi ideas influencing them at all times, not only whilst they were at school but also from films, music, media, friends, church and family. Even whilst they were at Nuremberg rallies, they would be shown extracts of last year’s rallies and how the older generation were enthusiastic supporters of the Nazi State. Hitler made a speech at the Nuremberg Rally, 14 September 1935, in which he stated the exact nature and purpose of the Hitler Youth. â€Å"What we look for from German youth is different from what people wanted in the past. In our eyes the German youth of the future must be slim, slender, and as swift as the greyhound†. They were indoctrinated with the idea that they had to sacrifice themselves for the good of the Fuhrer and Germany. This â€Å"Cradle to Grave† control, was enforced to create the Nazis of the future and indoctrinate them into thinking that they had to sacrifice themselves for the good of the nation. The positive reasons for joining the Hitler Youth were that there were children from all classes of families and there were no social or class distinctions. Also the appeal of the Hitler Youth was the novelty, the drill, the uniform, the camp life and the fact that school and parental control and home took a back seat compared to the community of young people. However shortly before Germany lost the war, Germany found themselves drastically running out of adult fighting men so youth members were forced onto the front. They were too young, had little training, no experience, and facing an allied army determined to win, it was evident the Hitler Youth was not as well-prepared for war as Hitler thought.

Crusades essays

Crusades essays Through out time, history has had a tendency to repeat it self. It has done so in good means as well as bad. People learn from the past and apply it to their every day lives. Although people try to do the right thing and not follow mistakes that have been already made, they just seem to come about. This day in age, out country is experiencing a situation that is extremely similar to that that occurred in the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries, that which is the crusades. Crusades now can be defined as all wars undertaken in pursuance of a vow, and directed against infidels. But back in the middle ages it was known as any military expedition under taken by the Christians of Europe (Random House Websters 318). On September 11,2001 the people of America as well as all other free countries in our nation experience a new feeling that we have not know of. We were being attacked for our beliefs, for the way we live our lives. This what we were feeling, was being fought for during the time of the Crusades. The Christians and the Muslims were fighting against one another in order to spread their religion, or end the other. The people who were the leaders of the attack were Muslims. Muslims are people who follow the religion of Islam. Islam is a religion that was founded by a man named Muhammad. The followers of Muhammad believe that he received messages from God. Those messages all established into the rules that the Muslims live by, and they are all recorded in the Koran. Some of the laws forbade Muslims to eat pork, drink alcohol, gamble or lend money for interests. But the main beliefs of the Muslims are The Five Pillars. Which are to have faith in God (Allah). To pray five times a day facing in the direction of Mecca. For a person to give part of their income to charity. To fast during the month of Ramadan, and to promise to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca at least ounce in your life. The event leading u...