A History Of Christianity In Egypt Essay free essay sample

, Research Paper The history of Christianity in Egypt day of the months back verily to the beginnings of Christianity itself. Many Christians hold that Christianity was brought to Egypt by the Apostle Saint Mark in the early portion of the first century AD. Eusebius, Bishop of Caesarea, in his Ecclesiastical History provinces that Saint Mark foremost came to Egypt between the first and 3rd twelvemonth of the reign of Emperor Claudius, which would do it sometime between AD 41 and 44, and that he returned to Alexandria some twenty old ages subsequently to prophesy and evangelise. Saint Mark # 8217 ; s first convert in Alexandria was Anianus, a cobbler who subsequently was consecrated a bishop and became Patriarch of Alexandria after Saint Mark # 8217 ; s martyrdom. This sequence of Patriarchs has remained unbroken down to the present twenty-four hours, doing the Egyptian Christian, or Coptic, Church one of the oldest Christian churches in being. Evidence for this age comes in the signifier of the oldest Biblical papyri discovered in distant parts of Upper Egypt. We will write a custom essay sample on A History Of Christianity In Egypt Essay or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page These papyri are written in the Coptic book and are older than even the oldest Grecian transcripts of the Bible ordered by Constantine in AD 312. The Egyptians before Christianity had ever been a profoundly spiritual people, and many readily embraced the immature faith, holding had their old beliefs efficaciously destroyed by the coming of the Roman Empire and the concluding dethroning of the god-king Pharaohs. Many of the constructs of Christianity were already familiar to the Egyptians from their ancient faith, such as the decease and Resurrection of a God, the thought of the opinion of psyches and a paradisaical hereafter for the faithful. The ankh excessively, the Egyptian symbol for ageless life, is really similar to that of the cross revered by Christians ( particularly in the signifier of the Coptic cross, seen at right ) , itself besides a symbol for ageless life. Furthermore, the belief that God had chosen Egypt as a safe topographic point for His baby boy to conceal him from Herod was a great beginning of pride to the Egyptian Christians. It was through Christianity that the Egyptian civilization survived the Roman Dominion. The Church Suffering and Victorious Yet these formative old ages were non without jobs. Throughout this clip Christianity in Egypt was locked in an frequently lifelessly battle against the polytheistic faiths of the Classical civilization every bit good as the Hellenistic motion that began in Alexandria spread to other big metropoliss. To counter Hellenistic doctrine that frequently criticized the immature faith the Christian leaders in Egypt established a catechetical school in Alexandria, the Didascalia, founded in the late 2nd century Ad. This school became the bosom of what can merely be called Christian doctrine, and great instructors and speechmakers such as Clement and Origen were able to conflict the Hellenistic philosophers on their ain land and advocator Christian religion in an orderly and rational mode. It was besides in this great university of Christian larning that Christianity foremost underwent strict surveies that created its first divinity and tenet, every bit good as doing the new religion accessible to all. Pantaenus, the laminitis and first dean of the Didascalia, helped the Egyptian people bridge the spread between Dynastic Egypt and the new epoch by advancing the usage of the Greek alphabet alternatively of the Demotic ( # 8221 ; cursive # 8221 ; hieroglyphics ) in interlingual renditions of the Bible every bit good as in the authorship of spiritual theses and letters. Additionally, the school educated everyone who came to it in Greek, opening the survey of faith to merely about everyone, and doing every bit many people as possible literate. Yet the greatest persecutions on the immature faith came at the custodies of the Roman authorities. Emperor Nero had set the case in point in AD 64, about the same clip as the martyrdom of Saint Peter. It was unusual, for the existent discourtesy was merely to be a Christian or to profess the Christian religion, instead than any sort of condemnable Acts of the Apostless that might travel along with it ( such as those later falsely attributed to Medieval misbelievers ) . An arrested Christian could have a forgiveness merely by offering incense on a Roman communion table, but many refused to make so, mentioning Bible transitions pressing religion in the one God. Thus the true # 8220 ; offense # 8221 ; of the persecuted Christians was their refusal to make homage to the Roman Gods, including the emperor. Those who did decline to bow to the Roman faith were imprisoned, frequently tortured, thrown to the wild animate beings in the amphitheater, or suffered executing by any figure of other agencies. Rather than detering the Christians, these actions encouraged them and reinforced their religion, repeating the words of Jesus that those who suffered persecution because of his name were genuinely blessed. These heroes of the Christians were called # 8220 ; sufferer, # 8221 ; a word that agencies # 8220 ; witnesses. # 8221 ; In the first century this persecution was mostly done by the authorities, though after a few decennaries they seem to hold lost involvement ( or become fearful of the religious order ) and in the 2nd and early 3rd centuries the rabble took over the persecutions. Decius and Diocletian, in the 250s and early 300s severally, brought the empire back into the persecution, but it was clear by this clip it was a losing conflict as Christianity had penetrated even into the highest degrees of society. It was in Egypt that some of the greatest rebelliousnesss of the Romans by Christians were done. While their Roman opposite numbers worshipped in catacombs and belowground vaults, the Egyptian Christians built their churches openly and performed their ceremonials in full position of the Empire. And for every one that the Empire struck down, more would be converted by the illustration of the sufferer. Diocletian was peculiarly brutal, put to deathing so many Christians in 284 entirely that the Coptic Church dates its calendar, the Calendar of the Martyrs ( Anno Martyri ) from that clip. Despite these persecutions, Christianity seems to hold grown quickly in Egypt, distributing to Fayoum in 257 via Anba Dionysius, and in 260 even down into the Thebaid. But in 306 something happened that would alter the fate of Christianity forever: Flavius valerius constantinus became emperor. Flavius valerius constantinus Actually, he became one of the emperors. The Roman Empire of the clip used the Tetrarchy, or Rule of Four. There was one Augustus and one Caesar each for the eastern and western parts of the Empire. One of Constantine # 8217 ; s first Acts of the Apostless as Augustus was to stop the persecution of Christians where he had been runing in Gaul ( France ) , Spain, and Britain. It is unknown where Constantine got his initial regard for Christianity, but it is thought that his female parent was a Christian. Shortly afterwards Galerius, the Eastern Augustus, issued an edict of acceptance for Christianity, stoping persecutions in Greece and the environing country. Maximinus Daia ( non to be confused with Maximinus the Thracian ) nevertheless, responded by increasing persecu tions in his district of Egypt. The narrative is told that one time before the Battle of Milvian Bridge ( by which Constantine took complete control of the Western Empire ) when the odds were greatly against him, Constantine beseeched God for aid, praying in the Christian manner, and won the twenty-four hours. He subsequently adopted the Chi-Rho, a conventionalized monogram of the first letters of # 8220 ; Christus, # 8221 ; as his criterion, and led his ground forcess to triumph after triumph. Because of this, Constantine was even more friendly towards the Christians, though he himself was non baptized a Christian until his deathbed. In 313 together with Licinius, the eastern Augustus, he developed a policy of spiritual tolerance throughout the Empire and for the first clip in many many decennaries there was a societal peace. Peoples were free to idolize as they pleased and the Christian Church was allowed to ain belongings, doing it much easier to construct lasting churches. Additionally, Christianity was made the official province faith, liberating it at least from persecution by the Imperium. Constantine # 8217 ; s order giving spiritual freedom to all under his regulation is known as the Edict of Milan or more decently, the Edit of Tolerance, and was the precursor of other spiritual Torahs such as those found in the American Constitution and the Lateran Treaty of 1949, portion of which created Vatican City. Feeling that his power in Egypt was threatened, Maximinus, still transporting out his persecutions against the Christians at that place, marched an ground forces across Asia Minor into Europe and confronted Licinius. Licinius, following Constantine # 8217 ; s illustration, prayed in the Christian manner with his ground forces before the conflict and defeated Maximinus. With this, Licinius brought the new Roman policy of spiritual tolerance to Egypt and ended the persecution of the Egyptian Christians. After this, Constantine became more and more involved in the workings of Christianity. His dream was to go to the Holy Land and be baptized in the Jordan River, but this was abandoned when he discovered that the eastern churches were in upheaval, largely due to the splash caused by the beliefs of Arius, now called the Arian Heresy. In 325, in response to this inharmoniousness, Constantine ordered the Council of Nicaea. This council was the largest assemblage of Christian bishops in the history of the Church so far, and though the bulk of those present were stand foring the eastern churches of Egypt and Greece, there were delegates from Rome, and therefore the nickname # 8220 ; oecumenic # 8221 ; ( intending # 8220 ; of the whole universe # 8221 ; ) was attached. Constantine attended every bit good, depicting himself as # 8220 ; bishop of external things, # 8221 ; and maintain a secular place on the issues, but it was clear that he wanted Christianity to be united and harmonious. The Nicene Creed, the great part of the Council and a supplication still used by Christians to this twenty-four hours, was composed by Saint Athanasius, a immature Egyptian deacon who would subsequently follow Alexandros as patriarch of Alexandria. The Foundations of Monasticism Egypt is regarded by many Christians, regardless of denomination, as the place of Christian monasticism, and it is really easy to see why. The sheer figure of Christian monasteries scattered about the East is amazing, from the 300 that were in Constantinople entirely to the stray Saint Catherine # 8217 ; s at Mount Sinai. Yet it was Egypt that was seen as the bosom of the cloistered thought. The anon. work, History of the Monks in Egypt, written at some clip in the 4th century, says of Egypt: There is no town or small town in Egypt or the Thebaid that is non surrounded by hermitages as if by walls, and the people depend on their supplications as if on God Himself # 8230 ; Through them the universe is kept in being. Christian monasticism emerged as a genuine motion during the early 4th century, but the spirit of monasticism was already present in Christianity with its thoughts of asceticism and moderateness. For the Christian East, the monastic was by definition a lone function, and at that place have been more Christian anchorites in this country than in any other in the universe. It is Saint Anthony of Egypt who is credited with the initiation of monasticism, along with his fellow countryman Saint Pachomius. Yet even they were merely spread outing on an thought that had already existed. After the decease of his parents in the 270 # 8217 ; s, Anthony had entrusted his younger sister to a Parthenon, or convent of adult females. Thus priories of what are today called nuns were already established long before Saints Anthony and Pachomius even began their work. Indeed, it is adult females who are to be genuinely credited with the beginning of the cloistered career. Yet Anthony still deserves the congratulations due to him, for his true invention was to travel the cloistered community off from the distractions of society and the metropolis and into the wilderness, which he did, establishing his first hermitage in AD 305. Unlike monasteries in the West, the monasteries of Egypt and the environing country had no centralised orders, instead, each one was an independent unit. Many of the early monasteries in the East were founded and maintained by the swayers and aristocracy, others by groups of the people wishing to hold supplications said for themselves and their households. The size of the monasteries besides varied greatly. Some were extremely organized endeavors, having big sums of land and commercial involvements, while others were hermitages of merely three or four members. After Saint Anthony, there were two basic types of monasticism in Egypt, and subsequently on, the universe. There was the eremetical, or anchorite, manner and the coenobitic, monasteries in which the occupants led a communal life. These Egyptian abstainers each lived really similar lives to the others of their type. They took vows of celibacy and poorness, and if portion of a cloistered community, obeisance to the archimandrite. They practiced long and frequent fasts, some abstained from intoxicant and meat, and they supported themselves by making services for the ballad people nearby, such as assisting with labour or the merchandising of some little handcrafts. The largest monasteries were frequently self-sufficing, owning farms and herds, every bit good as doing everything they needed, from the apparels they wore to the staff of life that was on their tabular array. If they did do any money for anything they did, they kept merely what they needed to exist and gave the remainder to the hapless. While crowds of the hapless frequently united monasteries ( vows of poorness being nil new to them, and at least they would hold nutrient, vesture, and shelter ) , subsequently on many of the upper category joined as Christianity spread across category and caste. Quite a figure of the latter were educated and were employed by the Church in assorted rational businesss such as catechists, clerks and physicians. From the really beginning, the early Christian Church had a topographic point and a undertaking for everyone. 34c

010 School Clubs and Review Professor Ramos Blog

010 School Clubs and Review Segregation and School Clubs Quick Write Do you belong to any clubs or organizations? Segregation and School Clubs In groups of 2 research the clubs on campus. Every group takes 1 and tell us what you find. Crafton Clubs Anime Club Aquatics Club Asian Pacific Islander Student Union ASL Club Black and Latinos United Breakdancing Club CHC Art Club Circle K International Club Computer Science and Technology Club F.I.N.D. Food FBLA-PBL Business Club Phi Beta Lambda (The National Business Organization) Fire Academy Association Fire Tech Club Gamers Guild Geology Club Health Science Club Lighthouse Christian Club Math Club Metaphysical Explorers Obsidian Dance Club Open Art Factory Club P.C. Game Hub Physics Club Psychology Club Psychology Research Club Social Justice Club Spanish Club Student Veterans Club Walking Tall Review the Campus on diversity according to the three criteria from our reading. Structural Diversity Classroom Diversity Informal Interactional Diversity Reviewing Teachers Come up with criteria to review teachers. Think about your past teachers, what made them good or bad? 3 to 6 criteria. not too many or too few. Sources for Review 1-2 Primary texts 1-2+ Scholarly sources 1-2+ Popular sources 4 sources minimum.

FIVE A DAY CAMPAIGN Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

FIVE A DAY CAMPAIGN - Essay Example 174). Improper nutrition owing to bad eating habits also leads to health problems and illness (Kum 2.1). Moreover, lack of exercises and untimely eating habits can also contribute serious illness and health problems. It has been proved by scientific studies that lack of exercise is the root cause for all chronic diseases (Radley 1993, p.125). Apart from the individual attention to health and illness, government in all countries also does take care of the health of its populace. A large amount of money is allocated every year for health care and preservation by government in all countries as a primary commitment. In the United Kingdom, a series of reforms have been introduced in the middle of 1980s that emphasized the importance of management in the National Health Service (NHS) and reiterated the power of professional managers and prior studies have found that health care system in the country is relatively strong (Jost 2003p.220). The Department of Health and NHS have a challenging role creating and preserving a balanced health care system in the country. They have been successful in their efforts to improve the health of the population by innovative methods and reforms in the health care system. One of such initiative is the introduction of five a day (5-A- Day) campaign in the country to support and encourage the populace to have a healthy life and enjoyment. The program initiates the people to take at least 5 portions of vegetables or fruits a day per person to maintain health and lead a happy life. At this juncture, a research study is undertaken to explore the role of the campaign in the health care system of the country. Basically, the study aims at describing the system and its popularity among the people in the country. The study also undertakes to throw lights on the impact of the campaign to reduce diseases such as cancer and stroke. The researcher takes a survey approach for exploring these aspects by approaching focused group who are involved in th e campaign in one way or the other. Objectives of the Study The main objective of the study to the role of five a day campaign in the health care system in the United Kingdom and study the impact of the system on the health of its populace. Specifically, the study aims at the following objectives: 1. To describe the role of Five A Day Campaign in the health care system in the UK 2. To understand the popularity of the system 3. To explore how effective the system is to achieve reduction in diseases 4. To help in further research in the area Research Methodology Every research study has a unique way of exploring a solution to its problem. This distinct steps or way of doing a particular research is known as research methodology. Research methodology for a study is unique and takes a fresh approach. However, the approach and methodology of past studies done in the similar field may be taken as a basis. The present study is qualitative in nature as it deals with only non-economic/financial data for the purpose of analysis and interpretation. This study is basically a survey research, which collects both primary and secondary data. However, primary data constitute the main source of data by which majority of the analysis has been done. The data collected are edited and coded to ensure

Global Economic Business a Substitute for Warfare Dissertation

Global Economic Business a Substitute for Warfare - Dissertation Example Why are you doing it? For this, a large number of literatures have been referred. It takes into account the nature and types, and reviews some of the leading theories of war and the manner in which they are related to the business corporation. It mainly focuses on the element of competition and all other aspects that are related to it. The main objective of the research report is to justify and analyse the statement – ‘Global Economic Business a Substitute for Warfare’. The research includes an extensive survey of literature with the purpose of finding relevant information that will provide a comprehensive understanding of the present scenario of business environment throughout the world. The report also includes the major findings of the research along with its proper analysis. In this report articles of renowned authors have been referred from various sources like online journals, books etc. Most of them have been authored by renowned authors across the globe. The articles relate the various aspects of war with modern day businesses. The simi larity has been shown so as to get a better understanding as to whether war is a substuotute for business.(You might discuss briefly the type/kinds of material you studied) Finally, the study also includes a primary research study and data analysis in the form of a questionnaire survey to determine find out whether economic business could be referred to as a substitute for warfare. The questionnaire survey would be analyzed using SPSS and correlation and regression analysis etc various analytical tools and software. The response generated from the survey would be evaluated to find out the respondents’ view regarding the topic of study. War has been in the memory of with human beings since time immemorial.

Popular Music, Youth and Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Popular Music, Youth and Education - Essay Example Green’s Music on Deaf Ears: Musical Meaning, Ideology and Education explains the status that popular music plays on a social standpoint. Green explains that the set-up of music in classrooms came about because of the roles and eventual division social classes in society. Because the only way to measure skills and set classifications for music was based on the performances of the students, the students who received the most education had enough money for private lessons (Green 51). Therefore, on a social level, it was the higher-class students whose parents set the standard for what music was going to be like in the school system. The study showed that students who had parents that were higher up on the social ladder were more interested in music than students who had parents lower on the social ladder (Green, pp 47-48). The higher class of students also had a higher appreciation for the classical training and thought they had a better understanding of the need, awareness and w isdom that this music brought to an educational setting (Green, 51). The willingness to learn and the likelihood that the students in the higher classes listened to this type of music out of the classroom were higher than students who did not receive this opportunity (Green, 52). The liking of classical music in the upper division and the fact that students who were fond of popular music over classical music not being represented in this study shows the role that music played in society and the relevance in education (Green, 45, 48).

Role Of Technology In The Operations Of Argos Marketing Essay

Role Of Technology In The Operations Of Argos Marketing Essay The organisation, Argos was founded in 1973 and is part of Home Retail Group (Parent Company). It is a generalized store, which sells a vast number of household products such as: household appliances, toys and games, DIY, sports and leisure, etc. According to the Times: Argos has a formidable grasp in most of the aforementioned markets. This establishments business model is based on a simple initiative: combine the comfort and the convenience of home selection (catalogues, internet, and phone) with the nearness of its high street stores. Since it first started out, Argos has always been noticed for its innovative use of technology similar to the way other organisations like Walmart, Amazon or Tesco utilize this type of technology. Computer systems have always had a huge impact on the way Argos functions as a retailer. Argos uses ICT to monitor stock levels, to recognise market developments earlier, to avoid stock shortage situations and to eliminate product theft. Tesco has a very similar business structure/model. Argos is convenient because of its integration with its virtual online business and its retail stores, just like the way Tesco operates; using its stores as its main core of operations. Argos also publishes two catalogues a year, the spring/summer edition at the start of January and the autumn/winter catalogue around mid-July. Finance and Accounting Argos is one of the UKs major non-fare retail groups. In 1998, after poor financial results, it was taken over by GUS (Great Universal Stores) plc. The then new appointed managing director Terry Duddy then set out to improve its performance. Part of Terrys job was to change the values and beliefs (the culture) shared at Argos. As stated in the Times 100 case study: The culture he (Terry) developed is one that values: customer service, teamwork, encouraging managers to take their own decisions, respect for each other and wanting to be competitive and improve. The Times then goes on to say that these values were clearly communicated to the employees; so that they felt more a part of the business. This clearly shows how Argos consulted with its staff to build a sound team, with team values such as: Welcoming change Being impatient to win Having lots of opportunities Working in teams Argos has built these values into its culture. To support this change, they also provided good introductory training, promotional opportunities and performance goals. As well as changing the culture at Argos, managers changed the marketing fusion. This consisted of the traditional Four Ps along with other issues which Argos thought important. Product. Market studies showed that the Argos brand was seen as dull and old-fashioned. Argos then modernised the brand with a new logo and new slogan: Brighter Shopping. It also extended its product range. Promotion. Argos advertises to separate market sectors. It divides its market by traditional ways but also uses brand awareness. As quoted from the Times: The get it group who know and understand the brand are used to help bring on board the dont get it group. Price. Argos continually keeps its prices as low as possible. Place (distribution). Argos continues to expand its retail market by opening new shops. Its catalogue is a key part of its distribution system and is found in 70% of British homes.  [2]   People Argos provides good training for its staff as part of its culture change. Process Alongside traditional shopping methods, Argos introduced Quick Pay and Text and Take Home. (Customers text to see if an item is in stock, and then reserve it to collect later) Quick Pay cuts down on queues by allowing customers to check availability, order and pay using credit or debit cards. Physical environment. Argos invested in improvements to make shops more appealing to consumers. As a result of these implemented changes to Argoss culture and the employment of technology. Argos now out-performs the market as a whole: Between the periods (2002-2003) sales grew by 13% and profits by 17%.  [3]   Sales Marketing For advertising, it (Argos) uses a variety of different media to promote its retail market, such as: television, radio, newspapers, catalogues, magazines, posters and the internet. Depending on which is the most beneficial and efficient at the time. This method of utilizing technology is very effective relating to attracting new and old customers namely by proposing: Value for money Convenience. Marketing managers at Argos are continually concerned with addressing questions such as: Who are our consumers? (Argos wants to discover as much information as possible on its customers in order to meet their requirements.) Are we proposing enough variety of products, appeal and convenience? How can we gain advantages over competition? (How is Argos different from the opposition?) How can we defend what trade we already have and how can we expand? How do we successfully interact with our customers? According to the website, computerworlduk, this year Argoss internet website accounted for 32% of the organisations total sales, 22% of which used the online click and reserve service. This shows how much of a positive impact the technology of the internet has had on this retail giant. However, compared to last years same interim sales review this year was 11% down, but despite the 11% fall in profits, online sales had significant growth. Argos sales ( £M): 2006 = 3,859, 2007 = 4,164, 2008 = 4,321, 2009 = 4,282, 2010 = 4,347Description: % Sales across more than one channel: Totals: 2006: 32 2007: 35 2008: 37 2009: 40 2010: 43 2010: Home delivery Store 7.7 Phone 1.6 Internet 9.5 Check Reserve Phone 9.5 Internet 22.5 Sales ( £M) (Picture on left) Definition: Sales in the 52 weeks to 27 February 2010 increased by 1.5% in total. There was further strong growth in televisions and personal computers, offsetting weakness in the video gaming market. Toy sales grew strongly. Challenging market conditions continued in home-related areas such as furniture, but the rate of decline moderated over the year. Source: audited financial statements. Sales across more than one channel (%) (Picture on right) Multi-channel sales grew to  £1.9bn or 43% of Argos sales. The internet represented 32% of Argoss sales; over two-thirds of this or 22% of Argos total sales were customers using online Check Reserve for store collection, with this channel growing by 36% for a second year in a row. Definition: Percentage of sales across more than one channel. There are three ordering channels: the internet, phone or store and two fulfillment channels, store or home delivery. Source: Measured internally. Argos has a multitude of unique marketing and sales strategies in retail. Argoss stated mission statement is: We provide our customers with the best value for money through the most convenient shopping experience. This statement clearly sets out the main areas which differentiate Argos from its rivals, namely by offering its customers. As stated in 2002 by managing director of Argos, Kate Swann. Customers can: Pick up a catalogue Choose at home (internet) Use a store to collect or order Use a store for collection point Order at home (telephone) Use home delivery She also specified that Argoss drivers for growth were: Small kitchen appliances (which it was in top position in 2001 for both value and volume) Beds and mattresses Watches Jewellery Portable audio Toys Retail Structure Tesco was the first to use such a structure; by combining its online website(s) with its supermarkets. Argos most likely adopted this similar strategy based on Tescos overwhelming success. However, Argos retail stores have minimal staff (unlike Tesco), and exploit technology to its full potential (like Tesco and Amazon). On an independent case study by Databank Consulting, they stated that: Argoss business model is a multi-channel approach: customers are offered different types of outlets for shopping. Prior to the introduction of the new e-channels, the customers could only browse the offer in the catalogue or directly at the store  [4]   They also suggested that Argoss success as a retailer has been based on its influential decision to adopt a technological based approach, by stating: The Argos website was launched in 1995à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Nearly 10 years later, Argos can be called a pioneer and leader in e-commerce. With www.Argos.co.uk, the company became UKs number two Clicks and Bricks retailer, combining both store based and online sales.  [5]   Before its decision to introduce a system called Nominated Carrier Scheme, the problem of receiving and delivering products was problematic and complicated, because every supplier has its own form of transportation, its specific method of documenting and specific time schedules. The decision was therefore to adopt a single system to bring together all the produce from suppliers and have them offered as only one delivery. This stock chain solution by UPS receives, validates and handles shipments from several hundred Argos suppliers. UPS then checks that the order is accurate, merges it with other orders and then sends it to Argoss own warehouses for the final delivery. Possible Improvements Argos could implement an improved stock ordering and restocking system. Argos stated that it would continue to roll out a voice put away process across all stores over the next two years. They then went on to say: This technology (voice put away) helps to automatically guide stock room assistants to the correct location  [6]   The key benefits of this technology would be; quicker processing and enhanced stock accuracy, thereby improving availability of stock and the level of customer satisfaction. Another possible improvement could be directed towards their gaming sector; as this is one of the areas they do not perform well in. They could do this by adopting a similar strategy to gaming stores like; Gamestation or Granger games. Which will include a trade in system for games and the value of the trade in(s) would be deducted from their chosen purchase from the Argos stores. Argos could then go on to sell the traded in games. The key benefits of this adopted strategy would be; increased sales at Argos as many people who buy games would be more inclined to shop there, increased revenue and a larger share of the gaming market. Conclusion Overall, this organisation effectively utilizes technology for growth, stability and convenience for both Argos and its customers. Argos has gained competitive advantage over competitors by distinguishing itself on the basis of providing the best value for money for customers through the most convenient shopping experience  [7]  . Tesco was one of the first organisation giants to integrate its already existing chain of supermarkets with a virtual online one, Argos uses the similar strategy but with a difference; convenience of reserving products online and collecting at the customers nearest retail store (there Click and Reserve service). The dominance and success of Argos (and other organisations like Tesco and Amazon) are a result of each of them applying their own unique shopping experience  [8]  . Argos is popular and successful because it is focused around meeting the customers needs. By incorporating new technologies, Argos continues to provide the methods that are most appropriate to the modern-day retailing experience.

How Students Choose ESL Writing Assessment Prompts :: Teaching Education Writing Essays

How Students Choose ESL Writing Assessment Prompts This article, reporting on the research done by Margo Glew and Charlene Polio of Michigan State University, examines writing assessment in a different way than most research on the topic. The goal of this research was to look into how an ESL student chooses prompts for a writing exam when offered a choice. Polio and Glew not only investigate how they choose, but how long it takes each student to choose and if they should even be given a choice at all. There are numerous suggestions through research that provide possible answers to the questions at hand. Some say students tend to choose shorter questions, or questions placed first or second on the list. This research was inconclusive however. Polio and Glew argue that â€Å"the primary reason for offering students a choice of prompts is the belief that students should be allowed to choose a prompt that will enable them to display their best writing† (37). This applies especially to ESL students who come from a much larger variety of backgrounds than to regular English students. However, â€Å"there is no evidence that when students choose a prompt, they choose one that allows them to display their best writing skills† (38). It is also pointed out though, that giving choices decreases reliability, adding to the already difficult process of fairly scoring written tests. Some even think that choosing wastes time. The researchers thought that looking at how the students chose a prompt might shed light on whether or not they should have a choice. They used 26 students and through testing, video taping and interviewing, they found that most students looked at all prompts before choosing and that 21 out of 26 students choose their topic in under two minutes. â€Å"The median time before students began writing was less than 60 seconds, with a range of 18 to 182 seconds.† (42). Out of all 26 students, only one student started writing with one prompt and started over with a second. Through the interviews they discovered that 22 students chose a prompt based on â€Å"perceived familiarity or background knowledge.† Proving true that having a choice should increase their ability to display their best writing proving false the idea that having a choice is a waste of time.

Josephine Beauharnais Essay

Behind every great man lies an even greater woman. The woman adds character to the man and also affects his actions and morals. The story of Napoleon Bonaparte would be incomplete without consideration of his first wife, Josephine. She contributed so much to his development and passion because of her influence. This greatly impacted his leadership, military victories, and and was an inspiration behind the Napoleonic Code. Therefore without Josephine’s influence, Napoleon would not have become who he was. To understand Napoleon one must first understand Josephine Bonaparte’s history. Marie was the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte.She was a popular Empress and had many defining characteristics which helped to shape her life. Josephine had a great impact on Napoleon’s emotions which affected the decisions and actions that he made directly and indirectly. (PBS; Napoleon and Josephine, http://www.pbs.org/empires/napoleon/n_josephine/courtship/page_1.html) She made him feel secure, provided him with emotional support, and gave him confidence which ultimately had a bearing on his decisions and actions. (PBS; Napoleon and Josephine, http://www.pbs.org/empires/napoleon/n_josephine/emperor/page_1.html) Another one of the ways in which Josephine helped Napoleon was through his military accomplishments. Prior to meeting Josephine, Napoleon was nothing more than a short, slight, shabby young artillery man, lacking real military victories. (Mossiker, 79) Josephine allowed Napoleon to strive for more than just a mistress but love. (Mossiker, 81) His fondness for her still remained with him even during his battles. After their wedding, he successfully conquered Italy in 1796-97. (Mossiker, 202) He continued his success conquering Egypt and this battle was significant because France gained a lot of gold and rare gems as well as the Rosetta stone; which was the key to hieroglyphic translations. (Mossiker, 134-139) While Napoleon was fighting his campaigns, Josephine used her connections to France’s political leaders to further Napoleon’s political career, hosting several parties that resulted in Napoleon quickly being promoted. That resulted in Napoleon gaining national prestige. (Josephine’s Influence on Napoleon, http://sphseuro.blogspot.ca/2009/02josephines-influence-on-napoleon.html) However, Josephine was chronically unfaithful to Napoleon. Napoleon nearly ended his Italian Campaign early simply to return to France and confront his wife. (Josephine’s Influence on Napoleon, http://sphseuro.blogspot.ca/2009/02josephines-influence-on-napoleon.html) A letter written to Josephine from Napoleon on the subject of her infidelity was published in several English newspapers, which mocked France and its ruler. Her several affairs almost led to their divorce, but Napoleon felt that a seemingly stable marriage would further his political aspirations and the two remained married. Josephine’s Influence on Napoleon, http://sphseuro.blogspot.ca/2009/02josephines-influence-on-napoleon.html) Therefore, even without her being present on the battle field, or even in the same country, it was Josephine’s inspirational spirit, that encouraged Napoleon throughout all of his major victories against Italy and Egypt. Napoleon created a code in which reflected his morals towards the family unit and marriage. In 1803, Napoleon established his own code of laws in order to repeal previous laws that weakened marriage. (The Law Behind the Man, https://www.mtholyoke.edu/courses/rschwart/hist255/jkr/napoleon.html) The 1792 divorce law was repealed and drastically changed. Before it was possible for either a husband or wife to petition for a divorce on numerous grounds, but Napoleon changed the laws so divorce could only be petitioned for under mutual consent and incompatibility. (The Law Behind the Man, https://www.mtholyoke.edu/courses/rschwart/hist255/jkr/napoleon.html) There were criteria that had to be met before a husband or wife could petition for a divorce on either of those grounds; if it was because of incompatibility the petitioner had to show proof of cruelty, adultery, or objected to certain humiliating forms of punishment administered by her spouse (Phillips 1988, p. 185). This is significant because it helps strengthen the family by giving both husband and wife the power to separa te. The Napoleonic Code also emphasized the family as a functioning unit. The needs and desires of the individual had been put ahead of others in the eighteenth century. (The Law Behind the Man, https://www.mtholyoke.edu/courses/rschwart/hist255/jkr/napoleon.html) Napoleon heightened parental authority by requiring their permission in divorce cases and a husband’s power by reducing the rights of his wife. â€Å"A wife†¦.owed obedience to her husband, a husband protection to his wife, and that the wife was obliged by law to live with her husband and to follow him wherever he judged it convenient to live.† (Phillips 1988, p. 186) This law strengthened the family unit, giving each marriage partner specific duties and rules. Again, because of Josephine’s influence he created this law to protect his family by providing more structure in the family unit. Even though it may seem that Josephine did not have a more profound impact on the world as Napoleon did, her relationship with Napoleon helped to motivate him to develop his military, personal, social achievements. Without Josephine, Napoleon would not have accomplished what he did and the world we know today would be drastically different. Works Cited Biography.com. A+E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . Courtiers and Favourites of Royalty. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Open Library. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . only read the short 4 paged biography Empress Josephine. London: Oxford UP, 1963. Print. Encyclopedia Brittanica. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . European History. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . Heritage History. Heritage-History, n.d. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . History Reference Centre. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Ebscohost. Web. 28 Sept. 2012. . Napoleon and Josephine. N.p.: Simon, n.d. Print. Bonaparte. London: Allen & Unwin, n.d. Print. Empress Josephine. Cambridge: Knapton, 1964. Print. Frances Mossiker’s Napoleon & Josephine. N.p.: Frances Mossiker, 1965. Print. Napoleon. New York: Aubry, 1964. Print. Napoleon Bonaparte. New York: Thompson, 1952. Print.

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